Putting defensive driving into practice
Putting defensive driving into practice calls for commitment and dedication. Every time that a driver gets behind the wheels, he needs to remind himself to put safety as his top consideration when driving. Watchfulness and readiness are key traits to putting defensive driving into practice.
There are several steps that one can take to help him put defensive driving into practice at all times. One of the most basic considerations in defensive driving is to minimize distractions. Driving requires concentration and statistics would show that many accidents on the road when the driver is distracted.
The use of mobile phones while driving, for instance, is one of the fastest rising reasons for motor crashes in recent years. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that 42,636 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2004. It has been observed that there has been increasing incidents of accidents that were caused by distracted drivers using their mobile phones.
What other type of distractions can take the driver’s attention from his driving? Some women drivers are proud that they can put make-up while driving but this could actually be very dangerous. Other drivers eat breakfast and read newspapers or tinkle with their PDAs when driving. To practice defensive driving, one must discipline himself to keep away from things that will diminish his capacity to respond to road situations quickly.
Another helpful step of putting defensive driving into practice is to solicit the cooperation of your passengers so you can be more watchful and careful on the road. Those who are mature enough can be your second pair of eyes in watching out for possible problems on the road. Children in particular can be trained early on to be good passengers and not pester their mothers or fathers when driving. Even at their young age, children can be made to understand that adults need to concentrate in their driving. Too keep children behaved, it is advisable to bring things that would keep them busy such as a toy, a book, or even snacks and drinks.
Practicing defensive driving is also about anticipation. It is not enough to look at the car in front of you. You must keep your eyes down the road to avoid accidents. At the same time, you need to have eyes in the back of your head. Always check your rearview mirrors to observe the drivers behind you. Stay away from drivers that have obvious bad driving habits or behavior.
Remember, defensive driving is all about being aware of everything that is happening around you while driving. You need to be aware of what is going on in front of you, on your left, on your right, and behind you.
The following guidelines from the National Safety Council will further enhance one’s skills in the practice of defensive driving:
• Don't start the engine without securing each passenger in the car, including children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of lives each year! Lock all doors.
• Remember that driving too fast or too slow can increase the likelihood of collisions.
• Don't kid yourself. If you plan to drink, designate a driver who won't drink. Alcohol is a factor in almost half of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.
• Be alert! If you notice that a car is straddling the center line, weaving, making wide turns, stopping abruptly or responding slowly to traffic signals, the driver may be impaired.
• Avoid an impaired driver by turning right at the nearest corner or exiting at the nearest exit. If it appears that an oncoming car is crossing into your lane, pull over to the roadside, sound the horn and flash your lights.
• Notify the police immediately after seeing a motorist who is driving suspiciously.
• Follow the rules of the road. Don't contest the "right of way" or try to race another car during a merge. Be respectful of other motorists.
• Don't follow too closely. Always use a "three-second following distance" or a "three-second plus following distance."
• While driving, be cautious, aware and responsible.
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