Things You Should Know About Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is a safe driving practice that focuses on staying aware of the road and the actions of other drivers at all times. While defensive driving takes practice and dedication, it can often prevent you from being involved in a collision, which can help keep you and your passengers safe. The following are only some things you should know about defensive driving practices. 

When Accidents Happen to Defensive Drivers

No matter how safe you are behind the wheel, there is no guarantee that other drivers will take as much care. This means that traffic accidents still happen to defensive drivers, and you should know what to do. The following are some steps you can take to protect yourself when another driver was at fault for a car crash including hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer who will fight hard.

• Call 911 and talk to law enforcement officers
• Get a medical evaluation
• Hire an auto accident lawyer

Being a Defensive Driver

There are many different aspects of defensive driving, and the following are only a few tips on how to become a safer driver.

• Understand all traffic laws that apply to you and ensure you are in full compliance. This can include knowing when you should or should not yield to other vehicles, the speed limits on all stretches of road (including school and construction zones), and more.

• Avoid distracted driving. Even the slightest distraction can cause you to lose focus on what is happening around you on the road. Working to prevent distractions - no matter how small - can help you become a better defensive driver.

• Give other drivers space. Just because you are focused on safety does not mean that other drivers are as well. There are many drivers around you that might be speeding, following too closely, or otherwise potentially dangerous. Yield to these drivers and give them room, which can prevent a collision. 

When you maintain control of your vehicle and focus on the road at all times, it can help you be fully prepared to react to dangerous drivers or hazards when necessary to avoid crashes. 

Benefits of Defensive Driving

There is no doubt that traffic crashes can cause life-threatening injuries, and the past three years have been without a significant decline in traffic fatalities in the United States. Each year, nearly 40,000 people die suddenly in vehicle accidents, many of which could have been avoided with safe and defensive driving practices. 

One of the leading causes of fatal crashes is distracted driving, and defensive drivers strive to avoid this often deadly mistake. Safety advocates have suggested that defensive driving is the primary recommendation to reduce the number of serious crashes and keep motorists safe. 

In addition to preventing accidents and injuries to you and your passengers, defensive driving can provide the following benefits, as well:

• Preventing property damage to your vehicle
• Keeping your auto insurance premiums from increasing
• Being less likely to be pulled over and issued a traffic citation

Always stay calm and learn about your legal rights as a car accident victim from a trusted attorney. 

Created by Blair & Ramirez LLP