Defensive driving refers to the techniques drivers use to reduce the risk of accidents. It\u2019s an active set of driving practices that includes maintaining a safe following distance, scanning your surroundings and remaining calm, among others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most states offer courses where motorists can learn the basics of defensive driving and in some cases, earn a discount on their car insurance<\/a>. These courses have proven effective \u2014 the National Safety Council (NSC) found that drivers who complete a defensive driving course see a 74% decrease in serious violations like at-fault collisions and serious traffic infractions. The NSC<\/a>, as well as your state\u2019s insurance website, can help you find courses and resources on defensive driving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even without a defensive driving course, there are small steps you can take that will have an outsized impact on your road safety. Here are some helpful tips for defensive driving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Safe driving behaviors can start before you ever get in your car. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, and keep an eye on the weather and traffic conditions in your area so you know if you need to leave early. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019re in your car, take a few moments to adjust your seat and mirrors, buckle your seatbelt, and make sure your passengers are buckled in safely. This is also a great time to choose a playlist or podcast for the drive so you don\u2019t have to adjust your radio once you\u2019re moving. Then, safely stow your phone or set it up for hands-free use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Staying focused behind the wheel is one of the most important ways you can keep yourself and others safe. According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)<\/a>, Distracted driving was a factor in 12% of all crash-related injuries in 2022. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you stay present and attentive while you\u2019re driving, it\u2019s easier to spot potential hazards and respond calmly. To help keep your attention on the road, make sure you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Never drink and drive:<\/strong> It\u2019s impossible to remain aware and alert if you\u2019re under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and the consequences can be life-changing. DUI<\/a>-related accidents were responsible for 32% of all traffic fatalities in 2021, according to the NHTSA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most important ways to be a safer driver is to maintain a steady, reasonable speed at all times. The NHTSA reports<\/a> that in 2022, speeding was a factor in 28% of all fatal crashes. When you\u2019re driving too fast, you have less time to react if something unexpected happens, like if a car suddenly slams on brakes or an animal runs into the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And don\u2019t just rely on the speed limit \u2014 if road conditions or visibility are poor, you can actually be ticketed for driving too fast, even if you\u2019re following the speed limit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are more tips to help you maintain control behind the wheel: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Continuously scan about 10 seconds ahead of you as you drive to stay aware of oncoming dangers on the road. Also, periodically check your side and rearview mirrors to be sure you know what\u2019s going on around you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By scanning the road ahead, you\u2019ll be able to react quickly if you encounter things like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t count on other motorists to make safe decisions. <\/strong>No matter how safe you are, you can\u2019t control the actions of others. Pay close attention to other vehicles near you so you\u2019ll be better prepared if they suddenly stop, swerve, or change lanes without signaling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A big part of defensive driving involves being courteous to other drivers. Lack of consideration can lead to frustration and even road rage in other drivers, but these simple driving habits can help you avoid aggressive drivers and create a safer environment on the road: <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the best ways to learn how to be a defensive driver is to take a defensive driver course. These classes typically last from one to 12 hours; you can find a defensive driving course online or in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike the basics taught in a driver’s education course, defensive driving courses are designed to teach advanced driver safety techniques, including how to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Did you know?<\/strong> The first defensive driving course was created in 1964 after Congress chartered the National Safety Council. Since then, over 80 million people have taken the NSC\u2019s course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After a traffic violation, courts sometimes give drivers the option to complete a defensive driving course to reduce fines or remove license points. But even if you haven\u2019t received any violations, you can take a defensive driving class to get more confident behind the wheel.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to drive defensively<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Get prepared and take your time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Avoid distractions behind the wheel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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3. Stay in control while you\u2019re driving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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4. Scan the road for hazards so you can react quickly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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5. Be a considerate driver<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Benefits of defensive driving courses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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