In 2019 alone, 1,146 people were tragically killed in road-related deaths, equating to over three people a day. With 45% of fatal crashes caused by single vehicles, 2020 is now a more important time than ever to make sure you are driving as safe as possible. Here’s how you can do your part to stop these numbers from rising.
Use a Tracker
Car trackers are an essential part of driving safely – many of which can be found from vendors such as Fit My Tracker. A tracker will notify you of your speed and will track your routes, allowing you to become familiar with the safest places to drive. You cannot always see road signs, but a tracker knows the speed limit of roads you have driven on before and, therefore provides a constant guarantee of not speeding. It is not only the driver that a tracker allows to be safe. If you are a young driver, your parents can be notified of where you have driven from their own phone. This allows peace of mind for not only yourself but your loved ones too.
Always Think Safety First
We all know that there are really bad drivers on the road. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to copy their inattentive tendencies and become an unsafe driver yourself. If you avoid being aggressive in response to fellow drivers, then you won’t be forced into a driving error. Thinking safety first isn’t just about when you’re in your car though – make sure to lock your doors and leave valuables out of sight when you leave your vehicle unattended.
Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Although it can only take a split-second to become distracted, it is essential that you are constantly aware of your surroundings. Frequently check your mirrors and be vigilant at all times. Slow down when approaching a green light in case it turns to red, otherwise you will have to perform an emergency stop and put yourself and others at risk.. If another driver is driving aggressively, either slow down or pull over to stay clear of the risk. Alternatively, if the driver continues to be dangerous then attempt to get off the road by taking the next exit. Although your attention will predominantly be on other cars, make sure to look out for cyclists and pedestrians on the road too.
Don’t Depend on Other Drivers
Although you are always trying to do the right thing when driving, that doesn’t mean everybody else on the road is. You should always be prepared to react to bad driving. Base your movements in anticipation of a worst-case scenario. Do not assume that another driver will let you merge into another lane or that they will stop when the light turns red – abiding by this will keep you safe of danger.
Abide by the Three Second Rule
It is a well-known fact that most collisions occur by hitting a car in front of you. Because of this, it is essential to follow the three-second rule. This rule means that you should always be three seconds distance away from the car in front of you. Not only will following this rule allow you to maintain a safe following distance, but it will also give you enough time to brake if needed. However, if you are driving in poor weather conditions, make sure to be five seconds behind as your braking speed is increased.
Always Keep Your Speed Down
It goes without saying that you should never exceed the speed limit. However, it is often sensible to drive slower than the speed limit. If the weather or driving conditions are poor, driving at a lowered speed will mean you are in more control of your vehicle. Anything can happen in the blink of an eye on the road, so make sure your speed allows you long enough to react.
