Don’t Be A Dangerous Driver!

Roads are becoming more and more congested, and it seems that as traffic grows, so do the amount of aggressive drivers on the road. We’ve all encountered them, drivers who cut us off, tailgate our cars, or run red lights or stop signs, nearly causing a collision. But aggressive driving is not the only danger we face when operating our cars. Hopefully this article will help you become a safer driver overall. And remember, not only do safe drivers help contribute to less danger on the road, they are also charged less for their auto insurance! Tickets, violations and accidents add up to higher insurance premiums. So protect yourself and others by driving safely at all times.

Cell phones. Talking on your cell phone can be a dangerous habit while driving. In fact, some studies show that drivers are four times more likely to get in a serious accident while talking on their cell phone. If you must talk, it is better to have a hands-free device. But, even this can distract you from paying attention to the road. It is best to wait until you have arrived at your destination before making that call. Or, make the call before you leave, or pull over in a safe spot if you must talk while on the road.

Road rage. Increasingly crowded roads, long commutes, and stressful, busy lifestyles are just some of the factors that contribute to what is known as road rage. Road rage occurs when drivers lose control of their emotions and become extremely aggressive as a result. The Insurance Information Institute (III) suggests that if you encounter a particularly aggressive driver, you should (a) not challenge them and (b) stay as far away from them as possible. Try not to drive if you are overly tired or stressed, as this could not only affect your driving, but could also impact your tendency to get unduly enraged while driving.

Drinking and driving. It is estimated that one driver dies every 30 minutes in an alcohol–related traffic crash. That’s why it is so important not to drink and drive. If you plan on drinking, you should always have a designated driver picked in advance. If you don’t, call a taxi or a friend to give you a ride home. It is never a good idea to drink and drive.

Not using the proper safety restraints. It is important to use the safety restraint appropriate for the passenger’s age. We all know that adults in moving vehicles should wear their safety belts at all times. But children must have the proper safety restraints as well.

It is a common misconception that all car seats fit all cars. That is not true. Safety organizations recommend taking car seats out to your car to test them before you buy them. When children are too big for car seats, but not big enough that adult restraints can be worn safely, they must ride in booster seats. It is also important to make sure that your child’s booster seat fits your car before you use it. And remember, all children 12 and under should always sit in the back seat.

Unsafe maneuvers in parking lots. Have you ever been in a parking lot where parking spots are few and far between and competition for them is fierce? Most of us have. Not only can not finding a parking space be stressful, it can also cause us to lose sight of everything but the task at hand, including pedestrians and other cars looking for spots. It can also cause aggressive driving if you and another car end up dueling for a spot. While this situation is obviously frustrating, try to remind yourself that it is not fair to blame others who are dealing with the same crowds you are. Be mindful of everyone’s safety.

It is also common in parking lots and parking spots to back up without properly looking, especially if you’re in a hurry. Be sure you look completely behind you and to each side of your car before slowly backing out of your parking spot.

Driving distracted. There are numerous things that can distract you when you’re driving. Whether it’s a passenger, that bagel you’re trying to scarf down on your way to work, or loud music, your attention is at least partially focused elsewhere. Try to always remember that when you are driving, operating your vehicle and being aware of what’s around you is your primary focus. Try to prevent doing anything that would detract from your focus, whether it’s eating, grooming, talking, or trying to reach that CD that fell on the floor. All of these things can be accomplished in minimal time once you’ve reached your destination and your car is stopped.