4 Tips to Reduce Driver Error

Here's one sobering fact: There are around 5.5 million car accidents in the United States per year. A big chunk of these accidents is due to driver error, meaning if drivers are more cautious on the roads, they can help lower this negative statistic. Here are four top tips that you can apply to ensure you're doing your part to help reduce accidents on the road:

Take it Slow

It can never be said enough that drivers shouldn't speed on the road. But if you find your foot pressing harder on the accelerator more than you care for, develop a habit of checking your speedometer now and then. Ease back whenever you notice the needle creeping up over the speed limit. You should always be aware of the speed limit in the area you're driving. Avoiding speeding is especially important if the road is crowded or there are bad weather conditions.

Watch Your Turns

Whenever you are turning make sure you have right of way. You should always yield to traffic signals, other drivers, and stop signs when required to. If you have stopped before a turn, take the time to scan the road for cars and pedestrians ahead of you before accelerating. Additionally, when turning, use the proper signals to let people nearby know of your intention.

Overtake Properly

You must exercise extra caution when overtaking another vehicle. If it's a two-way lane, make sure the road is a clear and you have enough room to pass other cars without getting too close to oncoming traffic. Besides being aware of the cars in front of you, also keep an eye on the car you have just passed. Do not swing back into your lane unless you can see the entire vehicle in your rearview mirror.

Keep Your Distance

When driving on a crowded road, make sure there's enough following distance between you and the car in front. Typically, the distance should be three cars long or at least three to five seconds. This ensures that you will have enough time to stop without hitting the car ahead if the driver in front suddenly stops. Otherwise, you won't have enough time to react, which can result in a fender bender at best or a casualty at worst.

So, whenever you're out and about, be sure to keep these tips in mind to reduce driver error. If you regularly apply them, you'll eventually build safe driving habits that go a long way towards keeping you and others safe.