Good Defensive Driving Tips

by Kimberly Ripley

Overview

Defensive driving tips can help ensure drivers that they are as prepared as they can possibly be when driving a vehicle on the road. While we can't control what other drivers do, we can certainly learn some defensive measures to protect ourselves when they make errors. Consider all defensive driving options, and incorporate the ones you feel comfortable using into your every day driving routine.

Utilizing defensive driving tips properly can potentially save lives.
Plan Ahead

Many accidents occur because people are in a perpetual rush. Plan to leave for wherever you're headed at least ten or fifteen minutes early. This will not only relieve some stress but will ensure that you don't drive too fast as a result of being late. Bear in mind that if you do have to increase your speed that this will also increase the time it takes to bring your car to a stop. Doubling your speed actually quadruples your braking distance.

Look Ahead

In addition to constantly scanning the area in back and in front of your own vehicle, it is imperative to keep an eye on what is happening several cars ahead of you. Many accidents occur because drivers don't see a breakdown up ahead or a fender bender that could be avoided. In addition, a defensive driver must constantly scan the area around his or her car for pedestrians, bicyclists, construction workers, and traffic changing patterns.
Mother Nature

The weather can impact your ability to drive safely. Defensive driving classes teach that when it is raining, defensive drivers should drive like it is snowing, and when it is snowing they should drive like the road is covered in ice. This extra care can help prevent unnecessary accidents that can be avoided. Never pull your car off to the side of the road during a bad rain or snow storm, as you risk more danger being hit on the side of the road. Instead, slow to a crawl if necessary, but keep going, and activate your emergency hazard lights.

Overview