Every day, millions of Americans spend some portion of their day driving. Despite remote work becoming more popular, many people still travel on busy roadways on a daily basis. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.”
It is impossible to control what other drivers are doing on the roadways but one way we can increase safety is by practicing defensive driving. As stated by Progressive, “Defensive driving is a set of safe responses to potential hazards, including other drivers, damaged road surfaces, debris, inclement weather, and more…Defensive drivers use techniques that reduce their risk of a crash by remaining alert, being prepared for the unexpected, and controlling what they can.”
Whether you are a trucker hauling a large trailer or a car making your daily commute, practicing defensive driving every single time you get into your vehicle is crucial.
Four Defensive Driving Techniques You Need to Know:
Many people talk about defensive driving, but not many know exactly what it is. So, let’s talk about specifics. True defensive driving boils down to the drivers’ behaviors. Here are 4 things drivers should always be doing to keep them and others safe on the roadways.
1. Look Ahead: Scan the road ahead to see any action or potential issues before
you reach them to have as much time as possible to react.
2. Look Around: Everything around you is constantly changing: the roadway, the traffic, pedestrians. Change your point of focus every two seconds and check your mirrors every five to eight seconds to see around you and navigate your blind spots.
3. Leave Room: It’s the most basic insofar as preventing collisions; keep adequate space in between you and other vehicles.
4. Communicate: You must let other drivers on the road know what you intend to do so they can act accordingly. By using your turn signals, flashers, and using your headlights in bad weather and dust to dawn.
Defensive Driving Saves Lives
Learning and practicing defensive driving strategies can help keep you, your loved ones, and those around you safe. It is easy to get into the rhythm of driving and start to “zone out” or check your phone. Distracted driving is dangerous. As a responsible driver, it is our duty to start alert, practice defensive driving techniques and minimize distractions.
Written by: Tricia Craycraft Accounting & Safety Manager at Extra Transportation & Logistics
Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/motor-vehicle-safety/index.html
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