In order to have good driving habits, there are a few things that you must learn. You have to be mindful of other road users. Having a roadworthy vehicle is also a good habit. Therefore, you have to take care of your vehicle mechanically.
The first rule of driving is safety first. Always fasten your seat belt before you embark on your journey. This is a life saver in case of any unexpected incidents on the road. As a driver, it is important to ensure that everyone in the vehicle has fastened their safety belts. Extra care is needed when travelling with children. They can be a distraction as they need constant attention. Make sure they are safely secured with the correct seat belt. Do not let an adult hold the child as this does not provide any protection to the child in case of an accident. Always remember to lock the car door.
The mirrors on the cars help you to be aware of your surrounding at all times. So make sure you adjust all the mirrors of the car to allow you to have a clear view of everything. If you can see a portion of the door handle on the bottom corner of your side mirror, then you have probably positioned the mirror well. If you decide to drive a vehicle that is unfamiliar to you, take a moment to look around before you drive.
Limit your speed to what the law allows. Do not drive so fast that you cannot brake in time in case of an emergency. Your speed as a driver, however, depends on a number of variables. For instance, if the road is frosty or slippery, then you should drive slower than on a normal road. Also, avoid going too fast when the visibility is compromised. For example, it is safer to slow down when in fog or dust.
Be attentive as you drive. Do not drink and drive since this will lower your alertness. You might not respond as quickly as possible in case of an emergency. Taking illegal drugs will also impair your judgment. They have varying strengths so it is impossible to anticipate their effects. Some of those drugs give a false sense of alertness causing drivers to take risks that are not thought through. Prescription medicine like cough syrups can cause drowsiness which leads to impairment. Avoid using cell phones while driving. This takes your attention from the road. Do not text or read maps while on the wheel. If you have to do this, pull over first.
Your emotions affect the decisions you make, so it is important to be calm and at peace. Avoid driving when in a state of anxiety or when you are mad at someone. Being in this state causes you to be irrational and unable to reason well.
To avoid nasty incidents on the road, keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. Give yourself enough room for stopping should an accident occurs. The distance should a few seconds distance from the vehicle. As a rule, when you stop, you should be able to see the tires of the car ahead touch the ground.
When you decide to pass another automobile, make sure you check the rear view mirror to ascertain that it is clear for you to pass. Avoid doing this at an upgrade since it might take a long time to pass. Do not pass at a blind spot; always make sure the road ahead is completely visible.
A good driver will always ensure that the car is in good condition. Take it for regular check-ups and change the oil regularly. Fill up your tank before the gas is used up completely. Do not rev the engine in neutral. Lastly, remember that less auto insurance is paid with being a courteous driver.
