Defensive Driving Techniques to Avoid a Wreck

Some car accidents are out of your control, but you can avoid others by using defensive driving techniques. Read below to learn some common sense safety precautions that you can take on the road.

If someone else causes your accident, The Law Giant can help. We will evaluate your claim, determine who is at fault, and hold them accountable. Call our Texas car accident lawyers today at (866) 523-4167 or use our online contact form to reach out.

Continuously Scan the Road

It’s easy to zone out or become distracted while you are driving. Instead, you should always keep your eyes on the road ahead and beside you. Do a quick scan from one side to the other several times per minute. Look out for cars, trucks, people, and animals that might be in the roadway.

When you scan the road ahead, you can anticipate actions of those around you. This gives you more time to respond appropriately. If there is a herd of deer on the right side of the road, you can be prepared in case they dart in front of you. A quick scan will provide you with a wealth of information.

Don’t Hog the Left Lane

You should stay out of the left lane unless absolutely necessary. Most car accidents happen in the left lane of a multi-lane roadway. Further, in Texas, it is illegal to drive in the left lane of a highway unless you are passing other vehicles. You are also more visible to police officers in the left lane, and more likely to get stopped.

You should drive in the right or center lanes instead. This gives you more exit routes in case a problem arises.

Hold the Wheel at 9 and 3

You should keep your hands at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions on your steering wheel. Those positions give you the best control of your vehicle. Don’t rest your hands at the bottom of the wheel in your lap. This can reduce your reaction time and force you to overlap your hands to make turns. Driving with your hands at 9 and 3 allows you to make quick maneuvers, which is essential to avoid an accident.

Know How Your Car Drives and Its Limits

Driving a Honda Civic is much different than maneuvering in a mini-van. It’s important that you know your vehicle well and understand its limitations. You should know how to take corners smoothly in your vehicle as well as how quickly it can stop if something happens in front of you.

Regular maintenance on your vehicle will assure you that your vehicle is in tip top condition. When you prepare your car for all weather types and conditions, you can be ready for anything on the road.

Call The Law Giant After a Wreck

You may be in a wreck even if you practiced all the defensive driving techniques possible. If you are, you don’t have to deal with the situation alone. Call Begum Law Group Injury Lawyers today at (866) 523-4167 or use our online contact form.