Defensive driving is a set of techniques that allows a driver to be more vigilant, remain aware of his or her surroundings, and prepare for changing roadway situations. Practicing defensive driving can reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident in Pittsburgh, as it allows you to expect the unexpected and take proactive measures to avoid potential hazards.
Stay Alert
One of the principles of defensive driving is constant vigilance. A defensive driver must stay alert and focused on the road at all times. Avoid distractions, such as picking up your cell phone, eating or drinking behind the wheel, daydreaming, or letting your mind wander. Staying alert also means pulling over and getting rest if you feel drowsy or fatigued.
While driving, your hands should remain on the steering wheel, your eyes on the road and your mind on the driving task without fail. Your eyes should scan the road far ahead of you so you can detect and prepare for any potential hazards, such as dangerous road conditions or stopped traffic. You should constantly be alert for possible accident risks.
Anticipate the Actions of Other Drivers
Rather than assuming that all drivers are prudent and paying attention, assume the opposite. Get into the habit of assuming that drivers around you will violate traffic laws, drive dangerously, fail to see your vehicle and fail to yield you the right-of-way. This will help you anticipate reckless, aggressive and erratic driving behaviors and react accordingly to avoid getting into an accident.
Increase Your Following Distance
Defensive driving can allow you to react in time to avoid a car accident, such as by applying your brakes when the person in front of you slows down. Give yourself the time and space to react appropriately to hazards by increasing your following distance and decreasing the speed of your vehicle.
Keep at least three seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Increase this following distance in inclement conditions, such as bad weather, poor visibility or congested traffic. Drive at a safe speed at all times. Keep in mind this may mean going below the speed limit in dangerous conditions.
Yield When Necessary
Defensive drivers know when to allow other drivers to proceed. This includes in uncertain situations and even when you have the right-of-way, if another driver is breaking the rules. If an aggressive driver is speeding and tailgating you on the highway, for example, switch lanes to allow the driver to pass. If you cannot tell who has the right-of-way at an intersection, yield to the other driver. This defensive driving technique can help keep you out of harm’s way.
Prepare for the Worst
Even the best defensive driver may not always be able to prevent a car accident. You cannot control the actions or behaviors of the drivers around you. For this reason, you should prepare in advance for the event of a collision. Always wear a seat belt and ensure that your airbags are in proper working order. These safety devices could save your life in a crash.
If you get injured in a motor vehicle accident in Pittsburgh despite using defensive driving techniques, contact an attorney at Dallas W. Hartman, P.C. for a free consultation about your legal rights. Work with an experienced Pittsburgh personal injury attorney to find out if you can seek financial compensation.