6 Defensive Driving Tips to Keep You Safe On The Road

Whether you are traveling to the local grocery store or traversing cross-country in the family truckster, staying safe on the road is a challenge. While you can’t control how others drive, you can control how you drive. We suggest you consider enrolling in a defensive driving course, especially if you have a teen driver. In the meantime, here are 6 defensive driving tips to keep you safe on the road!

Tip #1 – LIMIT DISTRACTIONS: This means waiting to reply back to the text that just chirped at you, or letting your fast food wait until it is safe to eat. If you have teen drivers, talk to them about not texting and driving and make sure you are setting a good example.

Tip #2 – EYES ON THE ROAD: You should always make sure you are taking in the surroundings around you. It is easy to get distracted by beautiful scenery or even checking out the advertisement signs on the side of the road, but it is important to always keep your eyes on the road – looking at the big picture (the whole road and all surrounding cars) and not just the car ahead of you.

Tip #3 – AVOID AGGRESSIVE DRIVING: Lane changes should be limited to when it is time to get off your exit, or for passing an exceptionally slow driver going under the speed limit. We have all encountered the impatient, speeding driver that is flying back and forth between lanes – this can cause accidents.

Tip #4 – LOOK BOTH WAYS: When you are going through an intersection, it is good practice to look both ways to make sure someone is not running through a red light. This is a common cause of accidents, but can sometimes be avoided by checking first. You also want to make sure you always check your mirrors before changing lanes or moving into reverse.

Tip #5 – AVOID BAD DRIVERS: If you spot someone driving recklessly, stay back. It is easy to get mad and exhibit road rage by tailing them, or slowing down dramatically, but this can cause an accident that hurts yourself and other innocent drivers. If someone is truly driving reckless, call the police when safe to do so.

Tip #6 – UNDERSTAND YOUR AUTO INSURANCE POLICY: It’s important to understand your policy and revaluate if necessary. Before you hit the road, contact Sleek & Williamson to see what is the best automobile insurance coverage available to fit your needs. We want to help protect you and your loved ones in the event of an accident.

Exercise caution and practice safe defensive driving anytime you are on the road. Following these 6 tips can mean the difference between safe travel and a fatal accident. For more information regarding defensive driving courses and automobile insurance, contact the professionals at Sleek & Williamson today at (770) 489-2403.