How to drive defensively in Tennessee
One of the most common reasons for motor vehicle accidents is driver error. Defensive driving can help reduce the chances of being in an accident. Driving defensively simply involves:
Staying aware of your surroundings
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and anticipate what may happen next to avoid getting into an accident. For example, if you’re driving on the highway and see a car merging into your lane, you can slow down or move over to give them space. Obviously, this is almost impossible for someone to do if they’re not paying attention to the road.
Planning ahead
Among other things, before you begin driving, you should plan out the safest route to take. If necessary, look online beforehand and map out your trip so that you don’t get into unexpected situations when behind the wheel. You can also check the weather conditions so you know what to expect.
Following the rules of the road
It’s also important to obey all traffic laws and signals. This includes using your turn signal when changing lanes, obeying speed limits, and not driving while impaired.
Being patient
When driving, it’s important to be patient and avoid aggressive driving. This includes braking hard, speeding up quickly, and weaving in and out of traffic. These types of behaviors can lead to accidents.
Yielding to other drivers
There are times when it’s important to yield the right of way to other drivers. For example, if you’re at a stop sign and there’s another car coming, you should let them go first. This is just common courtesy and can help avoid accidents.
Staying calm
When driving, it’s important to stay calm and not get angry or frustrated. This includes avoiding road rage and getting upset with other drivers. Getting angry can cause you to drive recklessly which can lead to motor vehicle accidents. It’s not uncommon for people to make mistakes while driving, but this doesn’t mean you should punish them with your vehicle.
By following these tips, you can help reduce the chances of being in an accident and keep yourself and others safe on the road. If you find yourself in an accident, make sure you take the right steps to protect yourself, such as seeking medical attention and calling the police as soon as you can.