All drivers have a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe. Becoming a safer driver requires an active effort and the right car safety tools. To help you make some changes today check out these ten steps to become a safer driver.
Take a defensive driving course
If you want to become a safer driver you should consider taking a defensive driving course. These courses are designed to help you improve your driving habits, to protect yourself and the drivers around you.
Throughout the course you’ll learn how to assess the actions of other drivers, anticipating what they’ll do next. Becoming a defensive driver is a great way to stay safe, you’ll also be eligible for a DD insurance discount. When you’re looking for car insurance there are plenty of discounts that you might qualify for. Check out options like no accident discounts, or low mileage discounts.
Use car safety apps
If you want to stay safe on the roads there are lots of different car safety apps that can help. Here are a few options to consider:
With the help of the Smart Dashcam app you can use your iPhone as a dashcam. Having a dashcam is particularly helpful in the event of an accident, you can use the footage to support an insurance claim.
DriveSmart:
This app tracks your speed and collects driving data. DriveSmart has a range of features, to keep you safe on the roads. You also get tips on how you can improve your driving habits.
Drowsy Driving Alert App:
This tool can detect if the driver is drowsy, and send alerts to get their attention. To avoid accidents caused by drowsiness, this is the perfect app.
Car safety features
Adopting safe driving habits is the best way to stay safe, yet there are also plenty of car safety features that can help. When you’re shopping around for a new vehicle, look out for cars that have automatic braking systems, blind spot warnings, and adaptive cruise control. Other top safety features include 360-degree cameras, lane assistance, and pedestrian detection features. As technology advances we can expect to see plenty more car safety features, to keep drivers safe on the roads.
Avoid distracted driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. If you want to become a safer driver you’ll need to avoid distracted driving at all costs. Ensure that you do not use your phone unless you are using the hands-free setting. Car HUDS displays can help you to keep your attention on the roads, sometimes these are in-built, or you can purchase external devices and apps.
Avoid driving while tired
Another one of the leading causes of road traffic accidents is driving while tired. These general tips can help you to stay safe:
When you’re driving longer distances ensure that you take regular breaks.
If you’re feeling drowsy, keep the window open, drink coffee and listen to music.
Take it in turns with another driver.
Certain cars have inbuilt safety features to detect drowsy drivers and send alerts.
Have your car serviced often
To stay safe on the roads it’s important to have your car serviced often. Having your car serviced will help you to solve any maintenance issues that could compromise your safety. It’s advised that you have your car serviced at least once a year, if you notice any issues, you’ll need to have your car serviced more frequently. Maintaining your vehicle is the best way to avoid trouble on the roads.
Having your car serviced will help you to increase the lifespan of your car, and avoid depreciation. Buying a new car is a significant investment and so you’ll want to retain as much value as possible. Service checks are the best way to take better care of your car.
Careful driving habits
Simple adjustments make all the difference, if you want to stay safe you’ve got to adopt careful driving habits. Avoid speeding, aggressive driving, and sharp maneuvers, not only are these things dangerous but driving this way also wastes fuel. Driving carefully is the best way to stay safe, and to become a more green driver. For other ways to become a greener driver, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider driving an electric car or a hybrid vehicle.
- Use the GasBuddy tool to reduce your fuel consumption.
- Try car sharing schemes where possible.
- Reduce your driving times where you can.
- Switch your phone off while driving, or put it on silent in a safe place.
Plan your route
To ensure a safe drive it’s a good idea to plan your route before you set off. Getting lost can leave you feeling distracted, which will negatively affect your concentration. When you plan your route you can get to your destination quickly and safely, and avoid feeling stressed. Try using route planning apps or your Sat Nav, both can help you to plan your route and get organized.
Route planning isn’t just helpful to stay safe, it’s also useful to get organized and save time. Whether you’re off on a road trip or driving to a new neighborhood, planning your route will ensure a smooth trip.
Understand the common causes
Being aware of the common causes of road accidents can help you to take preventative measures. Some of the most common causes of car accidents are adverse weather conditions, driving under the influence, speeding, and distracted driving. Putting your safety first will help you to reduce your chances of being in an accident, and to keep others safe. If you are in an accident, car accident lawyers can help you to get the compensation you deserve.
Another tip for being a safer driver is to fully understand your responsibilities regarding your auto insurance and how to behave in the event of an accident. Knowing what to do and how to start digital car insurance claims can help you to work towards resolving the problem faster with your insurance company and any third parties involved in the accident.
Paying attention to these eight steps will help you to stay safe behind the wheel. Unless you adopt safe driving habits you’ll be putting yourself and others at risk. Whether you take a defensive driving course or you use driving safety apps, it’s best to put some safety strategies in place.
Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy.
-Diego
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