Defensive Driving: Tips to Prevent an Accident
Florida is well-known for having dangerous roadways. In fact, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 395,532 accidents on Florida roads in 2016. With its expanding population, numerous highways, and many rural and city roads, there are innumerable opportunities for Florida drivers to be involved in a collision. One of the best ways to prevent yourself from being in a car wreck is to practice defensive driving skills.
Keep Your Hand on the Wheel
When driving, it is critical that you keep both hands on the steering wheel to control the vehicle. While it is possible to drive with one hand, having both hands in the proper position will allow you to operate the car more safely and be ready to react should you suddenly have to maneuver to avoid a hazard or another driver.
Watch Your Following Distance
Giving your vehicle space from others in front of it gives you time to react should you need to quickly stop or swerve to prevent a collision. The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (FDMV) recommends that you give yourself a 4-second delay which can be counted by watching the vehicle ahead of you pass a fixed point and then counting to 4. If you reach the fixed point before completing your count, slow down and give the other vehicle some room.
Do Not Drive Distracted
Drivers today have more distractions than ever before. Whether it is texting, eating, adjusting an in-vehicle entertainment system, or paying attention to child passengers in the back seat, these common driving behaviors are dangerous. Accidents can happen in a split second, and you need to be aware of what is going on around you. Discipline yourself to keep your eyes on the road and on the task of driving. The more aware you are, the better your chances will be of anticipating and avoiding risks on the road.
Watch Out for Bad Drivers
Paying attention to other drivers and the way they are operating their vehicles is critical. When you see another driver acting aggressively by tailgating, speeding, or darting in and out of lanes these are indications that you need to get some distance from them. Someone acting this carelessly is likely to cause an accident. Additionally, a driver who is drifting in and out of lanes or swerving may be falling asleep or inebriated. Maintain a safe distance and watch them closely.
Defensive driving can help you avoid collisions, but sometimes even the most cautious driver can be involved in an accident. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Florida, the experienced attorneys at the Draper Law Firm, are ready to help you with all aspects of your case. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation. We invite you to learn more about our firm here.
