Human mistake is to blame for the majority of auto accidents. Being a careful driver is the best method to lower your chances of getting into an accident. Reviewing some fundamental driving safety guidelines is a good idea, regardless of how long you’ve been a driver. 

Prioritize vehicle maintenance

Not only is routine auto maintenance vital for extending the life of your vehicle, but it’s also a serious safety concern. If the inspecting mechanic determines your car is unsafe, they will advise you on the necessary repairs. 

Incorrect tire pressure is one of the most frequent maintenance issues that might cause a collision. Tire pressure that is excessively high or low can affect performance or cause a blowout, particularly in heavy-duty vehicles like SUVs or high-performance cars. 

The vehicle’s brakes are an additional crucial component. See a qualified D Wells Auto shop mechanic to inspect the brakes if you sense vibration or detect any “softness” in the brake pedal.

Avoid speeding

If necessary, keep extra distance between you and the automobile in front of you, go below the speed limit, and be alert when driving around curves. If you’re driving in extreme weather you’re unfamiliar with, try assigning driving responsibilities to someone who is. Be especially careful when driving on ice roads, in a snowstorm, through fog, or in heavy rain. If the weather worsens, locate a safe spot to wait out the storm. 

Do not follow the front vehicle too closely.

According to safe driving recommendations, drivers should keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. That way, they will have adequate reaction time if an unexpected turn or stop occurs. Judging the exact distance when driving and adjusting for speed can be very challenging, so always play it safe.

Put on your seat belt.

Seat belt use prevents fatalities. When worn correctly, they guard against being hurled inside a colliding car or hurled through the windshield and out of the car altogether. 

Avoid aggressive driving

Another critical component of the idea is maintaining composure in the face of annoying traffic problems. Acknowledge minor setbacks, such as maintaining a safe distance behind a slower vehicle rather than abruptly shifting lanes. Yield to other vehicles to avoid accidents even when you are officially in the right of way.

Avoid distractions 

Talking on the phone or texting is the most common distraction when driving. Eating, applying makeup, tinkering with electronics, and conversing with passengers are additional potentially fatal distractions for a driver. Maintain your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Avoid driving when tired or drowsy.

Even if you might not think much of a few yawns, being a bit sleepy can raise your risk of having an accident. Reactions can vary from just “zoning out” and losing all concentration on the road to merely nodding off for a short while. If you’re feeling sleepy or exhausted, ask a buddy to take over the driving, or choose a place to stop and relax for a few hours until you feel more awake.

The takeaway

Practice safe driving to keep yourself and other road users safe.