How To Drive Defensively

Check out this great video on how to drive defensively.

With more than six million accidents occurring annually on road all across the nation, knowing how to drive defensively may very well save your life. New York Car Insurance suggests that you use the following guidelines in order to protect your life, the lives of your passengers and your fellow drivers each and every time you get behind the wheel of your car. 

1. BE ALERT! Keeping your eyes on the road and the other vehicles around you may very well be on of the most important rules when driving your car. Avoid distractions, especially using your cell phone to text or to make a call. With the majority of accidents occurring because of driver error, eliminating unnecessary distractions may save your life as well as those around you.

 

1. USE YOUR SEATBELT! Not wearing your seatbelt is simply an invitation for injury. Even during a minor traffic accident, a seatbelt could mean the difference between bumps and bruises or more serious injuries. It is also important to insist that your passengers wear their seatbelts as well.

 

1. DON’T FOLLOW CARS TOO CLOSELY! Allotting for at least a car length of space in between you and the vehicle in front of you is imperative. Should the driver ahead of you need to stop suddenly, you will have time to apply your breaks without rear-ending them. During inclement weather, allot for an even greater distance.

 

1. OBEY ALL TRAFFIC SIGNALS AND LAWS! Coming to a complete stop, signaling before making a turn and obeying all other rules of the road may make you a smart driver, but it is also the law. Save yourself the headache and dangers associated with careless driving and use good judgment.

 

1. SLOW DOWN! Obey the speed limit ALL the time and if the roads are in bad condition due to poor weather, slow it down even more. By driving at excessive speeds, you put yourself and everyone around you at risk.

 

1. NEVER DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS!  It is estimated that a drunk driver kills someone every 45 minutes and that 32 % of deaths caused by car accidents can be attributed to driving under the influence. Don’t make such a careless decision – if you have been drinking or taking prescription or illegal drugs, do not get behind the wheel. Period.

 

New York Auto Insurance wants you to play it safe and follow these guidelines each and every time you drive your car. No exceptions, no excuses.