Just as cell phone use at dinner is a major faux pas in terms of table etiquette; there are several driving etiquettes that people often ignore. You should always consider pedestrians, other drivers, cyclists, passengers, and yourself when you start the engine. Your driving habits can either lessen the risk of an auto accident or cause a detrimental outcome to occur.
Practice good manners on the road by adhering to these driving rules.
Use your turn signals
It may not always seem that way to some, but turn signals are an essential communication feature for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. You should always signal when turning, whether you’re making a standard left turn or entering a parking space.
Proactive Steps: Accidents often occur when people forget to use their signal and other drivers assume they’re going straight when they intend to turn left. Using your signal is necessary even when you believe there are no other cars around. Practice to always signal so that it’s second nature when making every turn on the road.
Keep focused on the road
Looking at your phone for two seconds can cause serious repercussions. You’d be surprised what people try to do while driving; reaching into the dashboard, reprimanding their children, video chatting, applying makeup and even shaving. These are obvious no-nos but there are other minor distractions people take part in that also put lives at risk. These include eating, talking on the phone, using a navigation system and operation music devices.
Proactive Steps: In order to avoid fiddling with devices while driving, set up voice command on your phone so there’s no need to revert your eyes from the road. It’s also best to give yourself ten minutes of breathing room so you don’t have to rush to your destination. This will prevent you from speeding and multitasking while driving.
Keep a safe distance behind cars
Tailgating is a dangerous move that can result in several types of accidents, from a rear-end collision to a multiple-vehicle collision. Not only does tailgating send a rude message, it can cause the driver in front of you to feel panicked and anxious, which can affect their awareness behind the wheel.
Proactive Steps: In order to maintain a proper distance behind other cars, always leave at least one car length between both cars. Another trick to knowing you’re at a safe distance is to follow the three-second rule. Choose an object on the road ahead of you and wait for the vehicle in front to pass it. If it takes you three seconds or more to pass the same object, you’re at a safe distance.
Practicing these driving habits can not only keep you safe, but protect the lives around you as well. Remember to always remain alert on the road by checking your mirrors and avoid driving fatigued.
Have you been injured in an accident involving a reckless or distracted driver? Discuss your options with one of the expert attorneys at Owen, Patterson & Owen. Call us at 800.676.5295 or contact us to schedule a meeting.
