Safe Driving Habits [Pro Tips]
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we know that safe driving habits are the foundation of responsible road use. They protect not only you but everyone sharing the road with you.
In this post, we’ll explore essential practices, defensive techniques, and vehicle maintenance tips that can significantly reduce your risk on the road. These pro tips will help you become a more confident and skilled driver, no matter your experience level.
How Can You Become a Safer Driver?
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we’ve seen firsthand how small changes in driving habits can make a big difference. Let’s explore some practical ways to enhance your safety on the road.
Buckle Up, Every Time
Wearing your seatbelt is non-negotiable. America recently achieved an all-time record seat belt use rate of 90 percent. It takes just a few seconds to click it in place, but it could save your life in a crash.
Keep Your Distance
Tailgating is a recipe for disaster. We recommend following the “three-second rule”: pick a stationary object ahead and count the seconds it takes you to reach it after the car in front passes it. In ideal conditions, it should be at least three seconds. In bad weather or at higher speeds, increase this to four or five seconds.
Eyes on the Road, Hands on the Wheel
Distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2020, according to the NHTSA. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving. If you need to use GPS, set your destination before you start driving. Eating, applying makeup, or fiddling with the radio can wait until you’re parked.
Respect the Rules of the Road
Speed limits and traffic signs aren’t suggestions – they’re there to keep you safe. Research shows that raising speed limits leads to more deaths. People often drive faster than the speed limit, and if the limit is raised, they will go faster still. Obeying traffic rules isn’t just about avoiding tickets; it’s about preserving lives.
Signal Your Intentions
Using your turn signals isn’t just courteous; it’s crucial for safety. Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes. This simple habit helps other drivers anticipate your movements and reduces the risk of collisions.
By incorporating these habits into your daily driving routine, you’ll significantly reduce your risk on the road. Remember, safe driving is a skill that requires constant practice and attention.
How Can You Master Defensive Driving?
Defensive driving is about being proactive on the road. At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we emphasize that it’s not just about following rules, but anticipating and preparing for potential hazards. Let’s explore some key techniques that can elevate your defensive driving skills.
Anticipate and Prepare
One of the most critical aspects of defensive driving is anticipation. Always be on the lookout for potential hazards. If you see a child playing near the road, slow down and be prepared to stop. If a car ahead is weaving, give it extra space. Anticipating hazards is a crucial part of environment, health and safety (EHS) practices, especially in lone worker monitoring situations.
Scan Your Surroundings Constantly
Develop a habit of scanning your environment every 5-8 seconds. Check your mirrors frequently, and don’t just focus on the car directly in front of you. Look further down the road to spot potential issues early. This technique, known as the SIPDE process (Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute), is used by professional drivers to stay safe on the road.
Weather-Wise Driving
Adjusting your driving to weather conditions is crucial. In rain, increase your following distance and reduce your speed. The vast majority of weather-related crashes happen on wet pavement and during rainfall: 70% on wet pavement and 46% during rainfall. When driving in snow, accelerate and decelerate slowly to maintain traction. If possible, avoid driving in severe weather conditions altogether.
Remember, defensive driving is about being prepared for anything. By incorporating these techniques into your daily driving, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected situations on the road. Stay alert, stay prepared, and stay safe.
How Does Vehicle Maintenance Impact Safety?
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we often emphasize that safe driving isn’t just about behavior on the road-it’s also about the condition of your vehicle. Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring your car responds as expected in critical situations. Let’s explore some key aspects of vehicle maintenance that directly impact your safety on the road.
Tire Care: Your First Line of Defense
Your tires are your only point of contact with the road, making them crucial for safety. Safety is obviously the number one concern when it comes to tire maintenance. But if your tires are underinflated you’re also costing yourself money. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Don’t forget to inspect the tread depth-if it’s less than 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires.
Brake Maintenance: When Seconds Count
Your brakes can mean the difference between a close call and a collision. According to the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey, brake-related problems accounted for about 22 percent (±15.4%) of crashes where vehicle factors played a critical role. Have your brakes inspected at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice any changes in braking performance, such as squealing, grinding, or a soft brake pedal.
Visibility Matters: Lights and Wipers
Clear visibility is essential for safe driving. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that headlight maintenance is often neglected, with about one in three drivers having at least one non-functioning headlight. Check all your lights regularly-headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. As for windshield wipers, replace them every six months to a year, or sooner if you notice streaking or skipping.
Stick to the Schedule
Following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. This includes regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections of key components like belts and hoses. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down unexpectedly, reducing your risk of being stranded in potentially dangerous situations.
Remember, vehicle maintenance isn’t just about keeping your car running-it’s about keeping you safe. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you’re taking an active role in protecting yourself and others on the road. At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we believe that a safe driver is one who takes care of their vehicle as diligently as they follow the rules of the road.
Final Thoughts
Safe driving habits are the cornerstone of responsible road use. From buckling up every time you get in the car to maintaining a safe following distance, these practices can significantly reduce your risk on the road. Defensive driving techniques like anticipating potential hazards and adjusting to weather conditions further enhance your safety. Remember, your vehicle’s condition is just as important as your behavior behind the wheel. Regular maintenance of tires, brakes, lights, and wipers is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
Developing these habits and skills is an ongoing process. It requires continuous learning, practice, and a commitment to improvement. Even experienced drivers can benefit from refreshing their knowledge and honing their skills. That’s why we at The Wiser Driver Driving School are dedicated to helping drivers of all ages and experience levels become safer and more confident on the road.
Our comprehensive programs cover everything from state-required Joshua’s Law classes to personalized driving lessons and defensive driving courses. We offer hands-on learning with experienced instructors, convenient road testing services, and even pick-up/drop-off options for ultimate convenience. Plus, our courses can help you reduce your insurance rates while boosting your driving skills.
Take the next step in your journey to becoming a safer, more skilled driver with The Wiser Driver. Our professional and reputable instruction will equip you with the knowledge and techniques you need to navigate today’s roads with confidence. Remember, safe driving habits aren’t just about following rules – they’re about protecting lives, including your own. Let’s work together to make our roads safer for everyone.
