Aggressive driving contributes toward more than half of fatal road accidents in the USA, and human error causes 94% of all crashes. For new and experienced drivers alike, defensive driving is a lifesaving skill. Whether driving around the streets of Bowie, MD, or elsewhere in the state, adopt the following safe driving habits, and you’re less likely to have a road-related injury.
Defensive Driving Tips for Drivers
Don’t Drive Too Fast
First and foremost, slow down. There’s rarely a reason for driving too fast. Excessive speed reduces your reactions and slows the time it takes to decelerate, which is why speeding plays a role in 29% of all fatal collisions.
Stay Focused on the Road
Distracted driving is another common killer. All it takes is a few seconds of glancing at your phone, arguing with your kids in the back seat, or reaching for an object to cause a devastating crash. Always stay focused on your car and the road ahead.
Keep a Safe Distance
Tailgating the car in front is another dangerous habit. You never know when the other driver will suddenly stop for no reason. Keep at least three seconds of distance between you and the other car. And during the winter months, extend this distance to accommodate the icy roads.
Adjust for the Weather
When it rains or snows, adjust your speed and anticipated time of arrival at your destination. Sometimes, you might even put off your trip until the weather improves. The weather can make a huge difference to road safety, so respect the weather conditions on the day and adapt your driving accordingly.
Snowfall and Rainfall in Bowie, MD
Bowie can sometimes be a rather rainy town, with 44 inches of rain each year on average. Fortunately, Bowie typically only sees 15 inches of snowfall on average per year, but that’s still enough to warrant cautious driving.
Expect Mistakes From Other Drivers
When on the road, the only driver you can control is yourself. Always expect other drivers to make mistakes. When you keep this mindset, you’re more likely to respond calmly and safely to any unexpected situation because it’s not something you’re surprised by.
Err on the Side of Caution
If you’re not sure how to react to something, err on the side of caution. If you have the right of way, but someone else is cutting you off, yield and let it go. It’s not a matter of pride: it’s a matter of keeping yourself and your car free from harm.
Use Your Headlights Properly
After dark, in fog, and during storms, visibility frequently plays a part in crashes. Always ensure your headlights are in good condition, and remember to dim them to avoid blinding oncoming vehicles.
Take Advantage of Safety Features
In addition to buckling up, take advantage of the huge range of advanced safety features available in modern cars. Your chances of accidents and injury are reduced with the cumulative benefits of modern Honda safety features such as adaptive cruise control, emergency brake assist, collision mitigation, and more.
Visit DARCARS Honda today for a fantastic range of new and used vehicles. Our helpful, knowledgeable staff will happily take you through each Honda model’s various standard and available safety features.
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