Defensive Driving is the Best Driving

Thousands of teens a year go through the driver education programs their states offer. We are all familiar with the excitement they are experiencing because we went through the same emotions when first starting to drive. But we don’t necessarily realize the profound effect that a good education can have on the type of driver you are. A thorough, well versed driver’s ed course can deter students from acting recklessly behind the wheel and promote awareness for defensive driving. Students can learn procedures and what exactly to look for when driving. A good driver’s course can also give the student enough confidence behind the wheel to calm their nerves; a driver must keep their cool to avoid making rash decisions. Courses also educate students on driving in certain types of terrain and weather as well as what precautions to take.

Many things can lead to the loss of a life behind the wheel, so it is important to keep your cool and maintain your vehicle. Regularly checking your car’s breaks and tires can prevent emergency failures that could lead to a crash. Checking your car for any problems and finding them right away also gives your car a better chance to live longer. Keeping your cool during emergency stops, traffic, and after close calls is key to staying focused while driving. If you allow your nerves to rattle you, the possibility of you making the same mistake can increase.

Thankfully, I have so far never experienced a car accident, but I have experienced several close calls. Defensive driving has saved me and my passengers countless times from careless drivers around me. I am no stranger to car troubles as well. It is important to keep your cool and not be nervous. If you have questions, you can call family members or friends but you need to be able to explain your situation thoroughly enough that they understand what happened. I have been in the car when a family member was driving recklessly because of their tardiness: it was scary. Drivers tend to drive more aggressively and don’t check for precautions as often as they should when they are tardy. If you know there will be lots of traffic on the way, leave early. Even if you already are running late, there is no use driving recklessly to make up for lost time.

Being a safe driver can save your and others’ lives. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times and you must signal others where you are at all times as well. Blinkers are an excellent way to tell your fellow drivers in which direction you intend to head. If you are switching lanes, turning on a light, or even in an emergency stop it is relevant to let the people around you know what your situation is. In making sure of your surroundings it is also necessary that you look in your mirrors before turning on the blinkers. It is a simple step easily forgotten by many, resulting in car accidents that could have been avoided.