Driving a car is a daily routine for many of us. Whether it’s commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on road trips, we rely on our vehicles to get us from point A to point B safely and efficiently. However, despite our best intentions, we all make mistakes behind the wheel at times.
This blog post will discuss some of the most frequent mistakes committed by drivers and highlight ways of averting them. The tips are meant to guide you whether you are a seasoned driver or you hit the road for the first time to make your journey safe as well as enjoyable.
Distracted Driving
Let’s begin by addressing the first and arguably the worst mistake – distracted driving. Smart phones are now a daily companion in today’s world. They are beneficial but distracters when one drives. You may get distracted while texting to your friend, making a call to someone, or even playing a song as you drive down to your destination.
Interestingly, research reveals that conversing on the phone while driving is just as bad as drunk driving. Do not make that mistake, keep your phones in silence mode, use a hands free device, or wait until you get home before checking your message.
Speeding
Another common mistake among drivers is speeding. Sometimes time is against us, which may provoke people to hit the gas pedal. Although excessive speed increases the possibility for accidents and multiplies the seriousness of injuries in case of meeting the other party’s vehicle. Ensure you don’t go beyond the speed limit, reduce your speed during rainy or foggy days, and it is always better to be late than not make it.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
One of the worst mistakes people make while driving is bypassing traffic signals, which is a very dangerous move and may result in tragedy. You put yourself, your passengers, and other road users in danger when running a red light or a stop sign. It may result in fatal T-bone
crashes, road accidents and even pedestrian knockdowns. Obey all the traffic signals and signs and wait your turn patiently.
Tailgating
Tailing constitutes an offensive mistake, which is also dangerous. By following the car in front of you way too close, you won’t get much time for you to slow down if the vehicle ahead brakes unexpectedly and this may result in a severe crash. You need to ensure that you have enough space for your vehicle to be able to stop safely when faced with emergency situations like abrupt stops or swerves.
Driving Under the Influence
There is no justification for driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other intoxicating substance. Drunk driving accounts for most road accidents, injuries, and deaths around the world. Make sure that you get a sober driver or use another means of transport if you are not fit enough to be driving.
Keep in mind that you’re not only jeopardizing your own life, but you are also doing so for every other person who is on the same road together with you.
Ignoring Seatbelts
Not putting on a seatbelt may look so innocent; yet, it can be deadly. In case of an accident, seatbelts are the most important tool that helps you survive and decrease the possibility of getting hurt or dead. Always ensure that you put on your seat belt each time you enter a car and ensure that every passenger also does the same. This is a simple activity with a huge role to play towards enhancing your security.
Not Using Turn Signals
Using your turn signals is one of the most important things you are supposed to do while driving on the road. Failing to do this can result in chaos in the road and cause trouble to other drivers.
Develop the practice of activating your signal lights when moving from one lane to the other, making a right/left turn or getting off the road. In fact, it’s one of the simplest measures to improve road safety.
Failing to Check Blind Spots
Failure to pay attention to the blind spots may be a common cause of accidents especially while turning. While mirrors do not cover everything, it is important to shoulder check, as well as be wary of vehicles that may be hidden in the blind spot for the sake of safety while making any lateral moves.
Aggressive Driving
Violent behaviors such as road rage and aggressive driving are daily occurrences in today’s traffic-laden streets. These actions, such as speeding, tailgating, cutting off other drivers, or making any offensive gesture can turn situations into dangerous encounters. Drive carefully, be polite and wait for your turn. Remember that it’s better to arrive at your destination a few minutes later than to engage in aggressive driving and risk a collision.
Ignoring Maintenance
This is a grave mistake as often ignoring regular vehicle maintenance can bring even fatal results. Failure to conduct regular maintenance procedures and disregarding indicators such as irregular sounds and dashboard alarms may cause breakdowns or accidents. Regularly check up your car, conduct a repair on time and stick with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Conclusion
The road is a shared space that demands attention, respect, and responsibility from all drivers. Avoiding these common mistakes while driving a car can go a long way in ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
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Remember, selecting a well-suited and well-maintained car can greatly enhance your safety on the road. Stay informed, alert, and calm while on the road to ensure a peaceful and safe journey for yourself and others.