For one reason or another, American roadways seem to be getting progressively more dangerous for motorists. One of the ways you can help avoid being another crash-related statistic is by driving defensively. Defensive driving is defined as “driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others”. To help ensure that you keep yourself and your vehicle’s occupants safer, practice these defensive driving strategies courtesy of your friends at Carwise.
Most drivers tend to stare at objects directly in front of them, including other vehicles. Because the human body wasn’t designed to travel at 60 mph, you need to be constantly scanning the road with your eyes at least a half-mile ahead. If a danger presents itself closer to your vehicle, your peripheral vision will alert you. That’s why your main line of visual focus should be outward so that you can scan the road for upcoming hazards like stalled vehicles or work zones.
Were you taught to “aim high while steering”? That means don’t make steering adjustments based on what’s directly in front of you. Instead, keep your eyes constantly looking into the distance for something like a sharp curve or wandering deer. Depending on your speed, a good rule of thumb is scanning 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your car’s path. And, make sure to vary that distance if you’re driving on a city street versus the wide-open spaces of a country road.
It’s important to drive proactively as opposed to reactively. As a driver, you should constantly be anticipating unexpected hazards that could place you at risk given the road conditions and traffic patterns. For example, if that traffic light a quarter-mile ahead has been green for a while, it’s probably going to turn red soon. Back off the accelerator slightly and get ready to apply the brakes. Or, if you’re driving on a snow-covered road, anticipate your next action if that oncoming vehicle unexpectedly starts skidding out of control.
Many drivers make the common mistake of believing that a driving emergency will never happen to them. But when you least expect it, you’ll have to slam on the brakes because another driver pulled out right in front of you. Another defensive driving strategy is reading the body language of fellow motorists. If the driver next to you looks angry or impatient, they could swerve recklessly in front of your vehicle without warning. When they do, the difference between a near miss and actual collision will rest mostly in your hands. Be prepared at-all-times.
Based on your surroundings, constantly be visualizing an escape plan if an emergency were to suddenly occur. Keep checking your mirrors and allow a one-second cushion for every 10 mph you’re traveling between your vehicle and the one in front of you. In bad weather conditions, give yourself even more room. If a vehicle is driving right next to you at the same speed, slow down just enough to let them pass.
Never let yourself get boxed in by a group of semi-trucks because one of them could suddenly swerve into your lane and nudge your vehicle. If it feels like the traffic flow could come to an abrupt halt without warning because of road work, picture yourself pulling onto the shoulder quickly so that dump truck behind you doesn’t end up in your back seat. No matter where you are, always have an escape plan in mind for when the inevitable happens… because it probably will!
Even when using these defensive driving tips, accidents happen. When a collision damages your ride, promptly take it to a better auto body or glass repair shop featured in the nationwide Carwise network. All shops listed through Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the driver-trusted technicians, services and equipment to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably.
Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.
