According to some studies, aggressive driving behaviors are blamed for over 33% of all traffic accident. And, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, about 90% of all accidents can be attributed to some form of driver error. This is why defensive driving tips can be so important.
Do not be part of the problem
Drive cautiously and avoid aggressive and distracted driving. Do not multitask behind the wheel, and drive like every other vehicle on the road is driven by one’s grandmother. Use the kind of care for other drivers that we all hope other drivers give our grandmother. This also includes not driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and ensuring that we get enough sleep before driving. Sleep deprivation can have the same effect as illicit substances and alcohol consumption.
Be alert
Keep track of conditions 30 seconds ahead and all around one’s vehicle. Never assume other drivers will obey the rules of the road or drive courteously, and always be ready to take appropriate action, should this assumption be proved correct. For example, when lanes merge, do not assume another car will allow the merge. Slow down to merge accordingly.
Prepare for bad road conditions
Maintain at least a car length or two between vehicles at all times. Do not speed, and drive the appropriate speed for the road’s actual conditions. If the speed limit is 70, but it is snowing, driving 70 is not a safe speed.
Escape plan
At all times, New Yorkers should position their vehicle to have an escape route, should a road hazard appear in front of the vehicle. This can mean maintaining a speed that there is not another driver on the left or right, and staying in the right lane to ensure there is a breakdown lane available, should a swerve or emergency stop be needed.
For Brooklyn, New York, drivers, the key is preparing, driving safely and planning for bad drivers. While it will not avoid all accidents, it will make driving much safer. Though, a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit is always available, should a car accident occur.