How To Be A Better Driver
Even if you’re not a bad driver, there are probably some things you could do better. You don’t need to go back to driving school though. Everything you need to be a better driver, you already know. It’s simply a matter of reminding yourself why it’s important and getting back into the habit that got you that license in the first place.
Take driving seriously. Yes, it’s something that feels like second nature to most, but taking for granted the potential for danger every time you’re behind the wheel can be fatal.
Pay attention. Keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road as much as possible. It’s one thing to change the radio station for a few seconds, and quite another to text a message while driving down the road.
Don’t exceed speed limit. Stay within the speed limit to be a better driver, especially in school zones, constructions zones, residential neighbourhoods and parking lots. You never know when and where someone could be in the road.
Be careful. Maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. The ideal is one car length for every 10 km per hour you’re travelling. Rear-end someone, and it’s your fault.
Let vehicles into your lane if you see a turn signal is on. If someone doesn’t let him over with plenty of space, he has no choice but to force his way in–dangerous for you and everyone else on the road.
Stop at caution lights to be a better driver. Contrary to popular belief, yellow does not mean go faster. It means slow down, so you can stop on the red.
Give other drivers a way. Move over for cars behind you if you’re driving in the fast lane. There are few things more frustrating on the freeway than getting stuck behind someone in the fast lane who refuses to move over.
Prepare to make a turn plenty of time in advance. If you’re in the far left lane and you need to turn right, don’t wait until the last minute to cross traffic. Chances are you’ll have to force your way in, racing to make the turn in time, and becoming a danger on the road.
Use your turn signal. It’s hard to believe that such a simple courtesy is so often ignored, and is among the most dangerous, inconsiderate things you omit when driving.
Avoid conflict to be a better driver. Inevitably you’re going to get mad at other drivers for violating Steps One through Nine. Curse them if you must, but keep it to yourself. The last thing you want in this day and age is a confrontation. If someone confronts you, ignore them. Never talk back and never pull over.
