Practicing defensive driving isn’t as difficult as many people think that it is, and it can help you to be a much safer driver. Here are some tips that you can try from Southcross Auto Service.
Don’t Try to Outrun Anything
It’s fun to race lights and to be the first one to get wherever you’re going, but it’s not the most defensive technique you can use as a driver. In fact, this can actually be problematic for you. If you’re coming up to an intersection and the light switches over to yellow, it’s best to slow down and stop. You’re not losing as much time as you think you are and you won’t have issues if someone decides to jump the light that is turning green.
Don’t Assume that Other Drivers See You
Another big consideration is that other drivers may not see you, even if you’ve got all your car’s lights on. That might sound ridiculous, but if other drivers aren’t paying attention, they’re not going to necessarily see you no matter what you’re doing. It’s best to just assume that they haven’t seen you and don’t know you’re there.
Don’t Believe Everything Other Drivers Say They’ll Do
You also can’t necessarily trust that other drivers are doing what it looks like they’re doing, especially if they’re in front of you. That driver in front of you might not look like they’re turning, but if they suddenly throw on their brakes to make a turn without signaling you don’t want to hit them. Making assumptions about what other drivers are doing is a dangerous way to drive.
Give Yourself and Other Drivers Plenty of Room
That’s why you should always make sure that you’re giving yourself and the other drivers on the road with you plenty of space in which to maneuver. By leaving extra space, you’re letting yourself have time to avoid that driver who is suddenly taking a turn you didn’t expect. Other drivers may try to fill up that space, so just keep adding it in.
Sometimes even defensive driving can’t help, like when your car needs repairs. Southcross Auto Service in Savage, MN is here for you no matter what your car needs. Give us a call today and set up an appointment. We’ll be happy to tackle whatever repairs or services will get you back on the road again safely as fast as we can.
