When it comes to driving a car, there are many rules you must follow. However, you should always remember that your safety is the most important factor.
The best way to stay safe while driving is to keep your eyes on the road at all times. This is especially true if you are a new driver.
Focus on the task at hand
When it comes to driving a car, the ability to focus on the task at hand is crucial. The best way to keep your brain engaged while navigating the road is to ignore distractions such as texting and eating and instead pay attention to traffic signals, other drivers and pedestrians.
If you can’t stop yourself from doing something that might be a distraction, you can at least take a quick peek in your rear-view mirror to check for speeding cars or pedestrians. But don’t let your eyes wander to the side while you’re driving, as this can lead to a number of dangerous situations.
While you’re at it, make sure to tie your tie and fix your hair and makeup before hitting the road. This might seem like an unnecessary extra step, but it can mean the difference between a safe and stressful journey or an accident. And while you’re at it, be sure to pull over when necessary so you can take a break from the driving and enjoy some of your favorite things like a cup of coffee or a change of radio station.
Do not depend on other drivers
When you drive a car, you must stay vigilant to the surroundings around you. This is called scanning. Scanning is important because it allows you to identify hazards and traffic risks before they become problems, so you can react quickly and safely.
If another driver suddenly makes a sudden move, such as changing lanes or tailgating you, give yourself enough space between you and the other vehicle to maneuver safely around it. For example, if you notice someone changing lanes while you are in the left lane, you need at least twice as much space between your vehicle and theirs to prevent a collision.
Also, be aware that some drivers may be tired, distracted, forgetful or lazy and not check their blind spots before changing lanes. This can result in a crash that causes serious injury or death.
To stay in control when driving a car, keep an eye on the road ahead and use your mirrors to look left and right as well. You should also focus on the path of your car for possible hazards, such as parked vehicles that are about to enter your path and crosswalks.
You should also be aware of the speed of other vehicles, including trucks and buses, on the highways. If you see someone suddenly slow down, try to pull out of their way by using your turn signal and adjusting your speed to accommodate the slower vehicle.
Always anticipate the worst-case scenarios, such as a vehicle that suddenly runs through a red light or stop sign and plan your movements accordingly. This will allow you to leave yourself an escape route in the event of a major accident.
Know the rules of the road
When you are driving your car, it is important that you know the rules of the road. This will help you drive safely and avoid accidents.
You should follow all the road signs, including speed limit and warning signs. These will tell you about the rules of the road for that area, whether it is a highway or a city street.
In the US, you should use your turn signals when you are changing lanes or making a left or right turn. This is to give other drivers a chance to see what you are doing and get out of the way before you make your maneuver.
Another important rule is to keep a certain distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will ensure that you do not end up in an accident with the car in front of you.
If you need to change lanes, move into the lane next to the one that you want to be in. This will allow other vehicles to pass you without having to stop or change lanes, which can cause an accident.
It is also a good idea to follow the two- or three-second rule. This means that you should select an object on the road ahead like a sign, and as the car in front of you passes it, you should count slowly to two or three.
Drivers should also be aware of school zones, where the speed is reduced because it is a school zone. This is often indicated by flashing orange lights or signs.
The law states that a driver must stop when they see an active emergency vehicle with flashing lights and sirens. This applies to all vehicles and should not be ignored.
You should not use a cell phone while driving. This is illegal and can cause an accident.
In the United States, there are many different laws that are unique to each state and even some cities. This is why it is important to familiarize yourself with these regulations, especially if you are traveling to a new state or country.
Stay calm
Whether you’re driving for work, on holiday or a long weekend drive, staying calm is always important. You don’t want to be tempted to take unnecessary risks behind the wheel, which can have a serious impact on your wellbeing.
If you feel your stress levels rising, try taking a deep breath to calm yourself. It’s also a good idea to take note of the environment around you. Pay attention to the colour of the cars you pass and the sound of traffic as this can help you stay in the present and keep your anxiety at bay.
You can also try to relax your body when you’re driving. Shrug your shoulders up and down or roll them forward and backward a few times to release tension in your upper body. Smiling can also help relieve your tension and bring you back to a more calm state.
Another simple way to remain calm while driving is to avoid saying negative words to yourself. If you’re feeling tense, don’t say things like “Stop it,” “Relax,” or “Why do you always do this?” These statements only serve to make you worse off and only allow panic to build up.
It is also important to remember that you cannot control the actions of other road users. This includes aggressive drivers who may tailgate, speed, cross lanes recklessly or honk their horn in a threatening manner.
Even if you’re a confident driver, it is never a good idea to become agitated with other drivers. You need to remain calm and give them room as this will reduce the likelihood of an accident.
If you’re feeling tense, you should stop and get out of the car to walk to a safe place. This will allow you to regain composure and only then can you continue driving safely.
When you’re in a hurry, it’s easy to get frustrated or angry. Instead of reacting to your irritation, try focusing on your destination and why you’re excited to get there. You can also use aromatherapy to stay calm, or put a few drops of lavender oil in your car before you set off.