Do You Know how To Be a Defensive Driver?

While you may have several decades of driving experience in Washington, you may be a relative beginner when it comes to being a defensive driver. You can follow all the rules of the road to avoid an auto accident, but learning the finer points of defensive driving gives you an added layer of protection and peace of mind. 

Business Insider describes how to become a defensive driver. Use these insights to keep your car and your insurance premiums intact. 

Get to know your vehicle  

Your vehicle’s specific features play a large part in how you handle it in everyday situations as well as dangerous situations. Specifically, look into your vehicle’s safety features and how they work. For instance, your vehicle may alert you of cars and other objects that come a bit too close to your rear. 

Engage your eyes  

Never underestimate the importance of using your eyes to alert you of a potential hazard on the road ahead. Besides looking forward, get into the habit of glancing at your rear- and side-view mirrors every few seconds so you know what is going on around you. 

Keep your distance  

By maintaining the proper following distance between you and other cars, you give yourself time and space to maneuver in an emergency. Note that the following distance you maintain while driving in the city differs from the following distance maintained while driving at fast highway speeds. 

Drive free of distractions  

There is no overstating the importance of putting your phone down, refraining from eating and keeping the totality of your concentration on the road. A split second can mean the difference between avoiding an auto accident and being in one. 

Be sure to bear the above tips in mind every time you get behind the wheel. One of them could prevent a major disaster from occurring.