Good driving habits save lives, while bad driving habits that are all too common can be dangerous or even deadly. To learn more about driving habits and skills you should develop to keep yourself and others safe, read on and consider a driving education course to further your knowledge.

1. Practice Defensive Driving

If there is any one skill you can develop that will help prevent accidents and encourage safety, it is defensive driving. Relying on other drivers to keep you safe and perfectly follow all rules of the road is not a smart bet, so driving with an added level of awareness and the ability to react to a number of situations safely is a life-saving skill to have. Constantly scan for dangers, make sure other drivers can see you and your intentions, follow other vehicles at a safe distance, turn on your headlights, and remain aware and alert at all times.

2. Avoid Distractions

Many accidents and tragedies are caused because of distractions while driving. Texting while driving is even more dangerous than driving while drunk, and it is a problem that is easily avoided by putting your phone away when you’re behind the wheel. Other common distractions include playing with the radio, eating while driving, applying makeup, watching videos, or trying to read something while driving. Even a moment’s distraction while driving can hinder your ability to react to whatever is happening on the road around you, and it only takes a split second for the worst to happen. To be safe on the road, keep your attention on the road.

3. Obey Signs and Speed Limits

While this one should be obvious, it is important to obey the signs and speed limits when driving. A stop sign is there for a reason, and choosing not to come to a complete stop puts you and others at risk. Speed limits are also imposed and chosen for a reason, and it is all too easy to take a sharp turn too quickly or miss a school zone if you aren’t paying attention to the signs and signals of the area.

4. Use Your Turn Signal

Signaling your intention to turn, change lanes, or pull over is important to let the other drivers around you know how to react safely. Using your blinkers is required by law, but it is also just a good practice to keep you and others around you safe and aware.

5. Keep Your Car Safe

If your car isn’t well maintained, it can present a safety hazard while driving. Bald tires on icy roads can be dangerous for you and the cars around you, non-functioning headlights or brake lights can present hazards, getting stranded due to car issues can quickly escalate to an emergency situation, and any issues that pop up when you’re driving at high speeds can be deadly. Regular maintenance on your vehicle will not only extend the life of your car and make it run more smoothly, it can save lives and prevent scary accidents.

To educate yourself or a family member in more safe driving habits, sign up for courses in driving education in Wichita, KS, with the Legacy Driving School of Andover, LLC today!