Defensive Driving

Defensive Driving is among the safety measures drivers must observe to prevent road accidents. Measures such as wearing seat belts, avoiding alcohols when driving, performing simple safety vehicle check before driving, and following traffic regulations, are some of the common safety rules that may ensure an accident-free driving. Aside from these, the following are some helpful defensive driving pointers. Observe speed limit Keep a safe driving distance Be aware of other drivers Observe special driving conditions (i.e.

bad weather) Observe Speed Limit Observing speed limit is a good driving habit that prevents road accidents. In many cities, speeding is one of the main causes of road accidents. Its danger can toll the lives of both the driver and the passengers. Some roads require certain maximum and minimum speed limits. This depends on the condition of the roadway. Unless a driver is cautious and alert while driving, speeding may cause vehicle collisions, risking lives on the road. Safe Driving Distance Never "tailgate" or follow a vehicle too closely.

This is one of the rules drivers must follow to avoid rear-end collision. This suggests that there should be enough distance between two running vehicles. Scott Roush, in his Defensive Driving Tips, suggests the following measure for a safe distance driving. The correct minimal distance between you and the car in front of you is one car length per 10 miles per hour. So, if you are going 50 mph, you should stay at least five cars lengths behind the vehicle in front of you.

This distance depends on the road and weather condition. There should be more space and distance during worse conditions. Rear-end collision, as one of the dangers of following a vehicle too closely, usually happens when a vehicle makes a sudden stop, and the driver of the next vehicle was unable to make an instant reaction of hitting his breaks. Be Aware of Other Drivers Drivers must be alert of mistakes other drivers may commit. Some drivers are careless. By being careful yourself, you may prevent accidents other drivers may cause.

Jesse White suggests Do not expect the other driver to do what you think he or she should do. Do not think you know what he or she is going to do. If you encounter a driver whom you think is careless, give him the right of way to prevent any accident. Observe Special Driving Conditions Bad weather -- drivers must maintain a safe driving speed - not too fast and not too slow. This prevents from adding more driving disturbance, caused by the bad weather conditions, on other drivers.

Getting on expressways -- there is usually a lane where drivers can.