When you get behind the wheel, chances are you are thinking of a million different things and driving safely is not usually not the most important. With more and more drivers on the road and many of them being distracted with their cell phones and being in a rush to get to their destination, it is more important than ever to drive defensively and with focus. In today’s post from AGLC DUI & Defensive Driving School, we are here to share some of the easiest ways that you can practice safe driving. Read our blog and if you are interested in attending a local defensive driving class, please give us a call or register for our next class.
FIVE SAFE DRIVING TIPS
FIVE SAFE DRIVING TIPS
KEEP YOUR ATTENTION ON THE ROAD
First and foremost, it is important to stay focused and avoid distracted driving. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye and even if you are paying attention, you have to be prepared to avoid a dangerous situation with a quick reaction. Too many people are using their cell phone, trying to find something in the glove compartment, or just daydreaming. It can be hard not to answer the phone when your boss/child/significant other calls, but not answering that call could be the one thing you do today that keeps you from getting into an accident.
DON’T LET OTHER DRIVERS GET TO YOU
When someone cuts you off and then slams on the brakes, your first reaction might be to put the pedal to the floor so you can race around them. Don’t let your temper get the best of you. We have all been in a situation where you are driving down the road and the speed limit is 45 mph and the person in front of you is going 30 mph. Situations like this can make your blood pressure rise, but taking out your aggression while driving a car is very dangerous and could cost you your life.
It can take some practice but try not to let other drivers get the best of you. Sure, the driver in front of you is going 15 mph under the speed limit, but perhaps that driver is new to the area or is lost. When the drivers around you are getting on your every last nerve, just remember to practice patience and try to relax by listening to some music or focusing on something positive. Even if you are a few minutes late, you will get to your destination safely.
SLOW DOWN
Have you ever noticed how everyone on the road always seems to be in a hurry? People are speeding down the road trying to get to their destinations as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, if you are driving too fast, you have less time to react and you have a greater chance of a more severe accident. The best thing you can do is to slow down. Make sure there is significant space between you and the next driver. Could you come to a stop or avoid an accident if that driver stop suddenly? When you tailgate someone you are putting your life and the lives of those around you in danger. Slow down. Leave some space between you and other drivers. You will not only get to your destination, but probably in the same amount of time.
MAINTAIN YOUR VEHICLE
You may not think that keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance has much to do with safe driving, but on the contrary, it matters quite a bit. Keeping your tires properly inflated is necessary for avoiding blowouts and hydroplaning. Replacing your brakes when needed can help ensure that you will be able to stop when you have to. Checking turn signals, brake lights, and headlights to make sure everything is working properly is necessary for communicating with other drivers. We understand that it can be inconvenient and expensive to get a new set of tires or get your belts changed, but keeping up with routine maintenance is a critical part of staying safe on the road.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING CLASSES
Are you interested in learning how to increase your chances of staying safe on the road even more? Why not consider taking local defensive driving classes. At AGLC DUI School, we offer defensive driving classes several days a week. Each class takes six hours and can be completed in one day. Attending one of our classes may even help you get a reduction in your insurance rate.
Are you interested in learning more about our defensive driving classes or DUI classes? Visit our page with frequently asked questions or give us a call at our Duluth office. You can also register for the class you are interested in, right through our website. We look forward to helping you stay safe on the road!
