How to be a good defender

It goes without saying that getting into an accident is unpleasant for many reasons. The biggest downside of an accident is obviously the injury and injury it can cause you and your passengers, but there are many other downsides as well. An accident is a big deal, as you need to exchange insurance information, fill out a police report, and take care of car repairs. Repairs will most likely cost you money, and an accident often raises insurance rates. All things considered, accidents are bad news across the board.

All this suggests that it is worth being able to defend well. A defensive driver is one who is able to react to surrounding drivers and avoid collisions and accidents that many other people would not have been able to avoid. Being able to defend yourself well can save you money and even potentially save your life.

Fortunately, anyone can become a good defensive driver by incorporating a few simple habits into their driving. If you do, you, your wallet, and your car will thank you.

Part 1 of 2: Set up your car for safe driving

Step 1: Have service brakes and regular maintenance. Make sure your brakes are working well and have them checked regularly.

No matter how good you are at defending yourself, nothing can protect you if your car stops working. You need to make sure your brakes are always working well, as they are your car's most important safety feature and the key to being a safe driver.

Always call a certified mechanic to replace brakes when they wear out.

Step 2: Have working lights. Make sure all your lights are working and being used.

Part of being a defensive driver is reacting to the drivers around you. However, part of that is also to make sure they can safely respond to you.

A big part of this is making sure all your lights are working. Once a month, check that all of your headlights—headlights, fog lights, high beams, brake lights, and turn signals—are working. To do this, ask a friend to stand near your car while you turn on different headlights.

Any time you notice that some of your lights are not working, fix them. This is especially important if your headlights or brake lights are not working properly.

• Functions: In addition to working lights, make sure you always use headlights and turn signals.

Step 3: Adjust the mirrors. Always adjust your mirrors before driving.

While most of the safety features are high-tech, the mirrors are not; however, they are still one of the most important safety features of your vehicle. Sideview mirrors play a key role in eliminating blind spots, while rearview mirrors help you always know where your surroundings are.

Always adjust both side mirrors and the rear view mirror before driving to ensure maximum visibility.

• Functions: While you're adjusting your mirrors, be sure to adjust your seat and steering wheel so you're comfortable and have a safe range of motion.

Part 2 of 2. Drive Carefully and Carefully

Step 1: stay awake. Never drive unless you are fully awake.

Many people try to overcome drowsiness when they are tired. Unfortunately, this is one of the most dangerous things you can do while driving your car. If you find yourself feeling tired, stop and work out, or have someone else drive for you.

While you should never drive when you are sleepy, there are a few things you can do to help keep you awake if you are driving feeling a little sleepy. Try rolling down your windows, playing loud music, and drinking water and caffeine.

Step 2: Keep your eyes moving. Move your eyes constantly to be aware of what is around you.

The key to being a good defensive driver is to be aware of where your surroundings are at all times. In addition to looking at the road, constantly look in the side mirrors and rear-view mirrors. Look out the windows and into your blind spots, and pay attention to any sensors in your vehicle that alert you to nearby vehicles.

Step 3: Watch your speed. Do not move too fast or slower than the speed of movement.

When you are driving on the freeway, try to follow the flow of traffic. If you're going faster than everyone else, or slower than everyone else, the difference in your speeds will give you less time to adjust to what they're doing.

Step 4: Fully Focus. Give the road your full attention.

When you are driving, always give the road your full attention. Don't text or fiddle with your phone. Do not try to eat or pay attention to the movie your passenger is watching. Pay attention to the road, the cars around you and nothing else.

Step 5: Maintain proper driving form. Keep your hands on the steering wheel and your feet on the pedals.

A key element of safe driving is the ability to respond quickly to any unforeseen circumstances. If a car tries to merge with you or a vehicle in front of you hits the brakes, you must be able to react immediately or you risk an accident.

In order to react immediately, you need to get into the correct driving position. Always keep both hands on the steering wheel in positions 10 and 2. Keep your foot over the pedals so you can hit the gas or brake pedal in a fraction of a second.

Step 6: Adapt to your environment. Adapt to the road, conditions and situation.

An important part of defensive driving is the ability to adapt. Each traffic situation is unique, so you should always be able to adapt to any situation.

If the weather is inclement, slow down, lighten your brakes, and don't swerve. If you are approaching a red traffic light that has just turned green, wait a second in case any oncoming traffic passes the red light. And if you notice that a car is driving famously next to you, stay as far away as possible.

Always be vigilant and attentive while driving and try to think of any potential problems that may arise so that you can deal with them in advance.

Once you get used to defensive driving habits, they become second nature. Be sure to always practice these habits as they can save your car and even your life. An important component of healthy driving happens before you hit the road, so be sure to perform all scheduled maintenance regularly.