Brush Up on These 5 Forgotten Driving Skills To Be a Safer Driver
Most people know how to drive. We learned when we were young and have been doing it ever since. But even the most experienced drivers can benefit from brushing up on their skills every once in a while.
In this article, we will discuss five forgotten driving skills that will make you a safer driver. Whether you are a new driver or have been driving for years, these tips will help keep you safe on the road!
1. Know (and check) your blind spots
Every day, millions of people get behind the wheel and head out onto the open road. While most drivers are cautious and attentive, accidents still happen.
One of the most common excuses following an accident is, “I didn’t see you.” Blind spots are the areas around your car that are not visible in your mirrors. Before changing lanes or making a turn, it’s important to check for cars in your blind spots.
Many accidents could be prevented if more drivers took the time to check their blind spots. Your mirrors and other technologies which allow you to see your surroundings without having to physically turn around are great to use, but you should not rely on them solely.
By being aware of your blind spots and checking them regularly, you can help to make the roads a safer place for everyone.
2. Keep your distance
When you’re driving, it’s important to maintain a safe following distance behind the car in front of you. Most drivers seem to have forgotten about this, but it will help keep you safe on the road.
Many accidents happen because one driver rear-ends another. If you’re driving too close to the car in front of you and they have to stop suddenly, you could easily run into them. By keeping a safe following distance, you’ll have time to stop if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
You should especially give yourself extra space when following behind trucks or other large vehicles. They can block your view and make it difficult to see what’s ahead on the road. When driving, remember to give yourself enough space to stop safely.
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3. Know who has the right of way
One of the most important things to know as a driver is who has the right of way. This is important not only for following the rules of the road, but also for ensuring your own safety and the safety of others. Failure to yield the right of way can lead to serious accidents, and even fatalities.
When approaching an unmarked 4-way intersection, for example, you should always yield to the traffic that arrived before you before making a turn.
And when approaching a roundabout, you should yield to traffic already in the roundabout and then enter when there is an adequate gap. By taking these simple precautions, you can help to make the roads a safer place for everyone.
4. Use both hands
Driving with both hands on the steering wheel is one of the easiest and most effective ways to become a safer driver on the road. This two-handed grip provides more stability and control when you’re making turns, navigating curves, or encountering sudden obstacles.
By keeping both hands on the wheel at all times, you are able to improve your reaction time in dangerous situations and prevent yourself from losing control of your car in rough driving conditions.
Additionally, having two hands on the wheel at all times sends a clear signal to other drivers that you are paying attention and fully engaged behind the wheel.
5. Using your turn signal
It’s a simple gesture that we all learned when we got our driver’s license: using your turn signal. But why is it so important? Many people seem to think that turn signals are only necessary when they’re changing lanes on the highway.
However, even if you’re just turning onto a side street, using your turn signal is a critical safety measure. It helps to alert other drivers to your intentions. This way, they can be prepared for your move and avoid any potential collisions.
Conclusion
By brushing up on these five forgotten driving skills, you can become a safer driver on the road. Whether you’re new to driving or have been behind the wheel for years, it’s never too late to improve your skills. Stay safe out there!
