How To Be A Safer Driver

Driving is one of the riskiest things you do every day. Many careless actions, such as speeding, giving in to distractions, and fatigued driving, can all significantly increase your risk of crashing. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is especially dangerous. Fortunately, there are simple steps that you can take to keep yourself and others safe. 

Five Things You Can Do To Be A Safer Driver

1. Concentrate on the Road: You may have been driving for years or even decades and feel like you can do it without much thought. However, we cannot stress the importance of always keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, in a recent year alone, distracted driving killed 3,142 victims. Therefore, avoiding all distractions, like eating or drinking, scrolling through social media, talking on your cell phone, and applying makeup behind the wheel, is crucial. 
2. Maintain Your Vehicle: You should perform routine safety checks on your car. Ensure that your tires have sufficient treading and are correctly inflated, test your blinkers, examine your brake pads, and visually inspect for leaks. If any issues arise, visit your auto mechanic immediately. If you receive any recall notices, have your car fixed as soon as possible. 
3. Always Obey Traffic Signs and Signals: Most collisions occur at intersections. When stopped at a sign or red light, be prepared for other motorists not to stop. Always look both ways before proceeding and delay slightly to give yourself sufficient time to visualize potential problems.
4. Drive Defensively: Practicing defensive driving entails remaining alert on the road ahead, maintaining proper distance between the vehicle in front of you, matching your speed to the road conditions, using turn signals, having an escape plan, avoiding careless drivers, and surveilling for changing weather and road conditions. Using your rear and side-view mirrors, regularly check all around you.
5. Plan Accordingly: Give yourself time to arrive at your destination safely. If you are always running late, try and leave earlier to avoid speed-related accidents. Also, know your route and where to exit or turn. 

Most importantly, seatbelts save lives. Never drive anywhere before buckling up. Being the safest possible driver should be your goal. Following our above recommendations can help make you a safer driver. If, however, you find yourself adversely affected by another driver’s carelessness, the expert team at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. is prepared to stand up for you. Jed Dietrich, Esq., will work vigorously to obtain the compensation that you deserve. Please call 716-839-3939 to schedule your free, complimentary consultation and learn more about our elite legal representation.