Learning to drive is one task that is learned in a few months. Learning to drive safely is a complex process that takes time and experience. However, the idea of being safe behind the wheel can be broken down into several categories.
Dealing with Distractions
Being distracted behind the wheel is a common problem for people of all ages. While many people think of texting as a distraction—and it has become a major problem—other distractions also exist. Anything from turning a radio channel to eating food or taking a drink can divert your eyes from the road long enough to cause an accident. The key is to pay attention to the road and notice what distractions try to get your attention.
Driving Under the Influence
While many people do not intentionally drive when they have had too much to drink, it is all too easy to drive after a couple of drinks when you think you are "just fine."
Accidents that involve a driver under the influence are four times as high as other crashes, according to the Alabama Department of Transportation. Safe driving means letting someone else drive after you have been drinking even if you don't think you have had too much to drink.
Fast Speeds
Driving fast doesn't always mean you are more likely to get in an accident, but it is more likely to increase the severity of the accident if one should happen. Going too fast also reduces the amount of time you have to make decisions on the road.
Driving safely doesn't just mean following the speed limit. It also means taking into account weather and road conditions and even your own state of mind and driving at a speed limit that is safe for the situation. In some cases, this means driving well below the speed limit. A person must learn to recognize what speed is safe for him or her in each given situation.
Using Seat Belts
People who are safe drivers wear their seat belts no matter how far they are going. Unfortunately, too many people put on a seat belt when they are driving a long distance but not just down the street. An accident can happen at any time, and seat belts help to maintain your safety.
Following the Rules of the Road
While many people feel safe when driving in regular conditions, they may not think about their actions in special situations. These conditions can result in injuries to the driver and others around him or her.
- Work Zones – Slow speed limits ensure the road workers safety as well as those of the people in the vehicles. The most common accidents around a work site are rear-end collisions because someone was going too fast or not paying attention to the car in front.
- Railroad Crossings – This is another area where people fail to pay attention. They may think they can beat the train across or get through before the safety gates drop down.
- Flashing Yellow Signal Light – This traffic light is becoming standard around the U.S. and means that drivers turning left are to yield to oncoming traffic. It is designed to cut down on accidents in busy intersections.
Learning to drive safely from a driving school in Alabama can save your life, your passengers and others around you. No one is an expert at safe driving all of the time, but it is important to continue working to improve.