It is estimated that each driver will be involved in some type of collision every 18 years. While risky driving will increase those numbers, you can help minimize those odds by practicing defensive driving habits.
By driving defensively, you will be more likely to recognize potential dangers quickly and also predict how other drivers will react. Driving defensively not only means following all traffic laws, but it also means practicing certain behaviors that will assist you in making the best decisions for potentially dangerous situations that may arise.
Defensive Driving Behaviors
Avoid drivers with issues: If you see a driver who is driving erratically, aggressively, or exhibiting other potentially dangerous behavior, slow down or turn onto a different road in order to avoid any interaction or contact with that vehicle. If you think the driver may be under the influence, contact the authorities and report it.
Put everything away: Your entire focus, while you are behind the wheel, should be the road. Make sure your phone is put away somewhere so you won’t be distracted by people calling or texting you. If you are hungry or need to fix your makeup, pull over somewhere in a safe place, off the road. Do not eat or groom while you are driving.
You can’t predict the future: Never make assumptions on what another driver is going to do. Don’t assume they are going to let you pull into the road, merge into a lane, or obey traffic laws. This is how many accidents happen.
Follow the three-second rule: Always stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. If the weather is bad or traffic is heavy, leave even more room between you and the other car.
Stay alert: Make sure to frequently check your mirrors. You want to always be aware of everything that is going on around you, not just in the front of your vehicle.
Speed limits are for following: There is a reason why posted speed limits are chosen and why it is not safe to go 55 m.p.h. in a 35 m.p.h. zone. Speeding causes a high percentage of accidents.
Contact a Va. Injury Attorney
Unfortunately, although you may practice defensive driving behaviors, some car crashes are just not avoidable. If you have sustained injuries because of a negligent or reckless driver, you may be entitled to financial damages for those injuries. Contact one of our dedicated Virginia car accident attorneys to discuss the details of your case and how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
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