New drivers, no matter how old or young, should drive defensively before obtaining their driver’s license. When new drivers have their learner’s permit, driving instructors, parents, and grandparents can teach them how to drive defensively. The learner’s permit allows the driver to drive with another person, from within the family that has been driving for over five years. Defensive driving is an important part of the learning process for new drivers and experienced drivers in order to stay safe when on the roads.
The following defensive driving tips can keep you safe on the roads and make you a better driver.
Take five and stay alive. Leave five minutes earlier than you plan to leave to allow for traffic, weather, construction, accidents, or any other delay that you might encounter.
Do not tailgate. When traveling, do not rid too close to another vehicle. Allow yourself ample space to stop in the event of the vehicle in front of you, slamming on his or her brakes.
Know your surroundings. Wherever you are headed, make sure you know your surroundings. This will help you navigate the roads and become aware by what is coming up ahead. Do not drive aimlessly or blindly in an unknown area.
Slow down through construction and school zones. Make sure you obey posted speed limits through construction and school zones. If you stay at or under the posted speed limit, you will be doing your part to keep construction workers, school employees, and students safe as you pass.
Anticipate what the drivers around you are going to do. Never assume that drivers around you see you or will use their turn signal. Try to anticipate what other drivers are thinking about doing on the roads.
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More tips on defensive driving posted here soon.
