Regardless of how often you drive or where you are going, there are common dangers and bad habits that could pop up, which is why it’s important to focus and practice safe driving no matter where you are or where you’re headed. Driving is often something that feels like second nature, but it is critical to always pay attention and take it seriously. We often forget that we’re seated behind a hulking piece of machinery that can cause irreparable harm or damage. Let’s review some of the common driving scenarios so you can brush up on how to be a safer driver.
Daily Commute to Work
While some major cities have great public transportation infrastructure, chances are that you are driving yourself to and from work every day. According to CNN, that daily commute is more dangerous than any other time on the road. With so many drivers anxious to get to work on time and navigating the stresses of daily life, it’s easy to feel and encounter road rage, especially in heavily congested traffic. While it’s easy to be frustrated with drivers that are careless and aggressive on the road, focus on defensive and cautious driving. To avoid road rage, try calming yourself with some relaxing music and do your best to ignore aggressive drivers.
Long-Distance Driving
Road trips are a fun and inexpensive way to reach a long-distance destination, and sometimes the road trip is the vacation itself. Many have found adventure from hopping in their car to just see where the road takes them. To ensure a safe journey, make a point to avoid distracted driving. Smart phones, radios, GPS systems, passengers, and even your snacks are potential distractions that take your eyes off the road. According to Safe Start, the most dangerous distraction is simply not paying attention. It’s easy to let your mind wander if you are driving for hours on the open road, but it’s important to always stay focused and engaged. To avoid accidents and to help you stay awake and focused during long trips, make frequent pit stops, keep the temperature cool, and put on some upbeat music or an engaging audiobook. An attentive driver is a safe driver.
Vacation Vibes
Vacations are meant to be fun and relaxing, especially when staying in a new city. For some, this means a time of indulgence, whether it’s exquisite food or fancy accommodations. For other people it’s an opportunity to indulge in a special car rental. Maybe it’s the ultimate dream for you to tool around Miami Beach in a Maserati Granturismo Convertible! Companies like Imagine Lifestyles offer this very experience with luxury and exotic vehicles ranging from Aston Martins to Lamborghinis to Mercedes. It can be tempting to lean on the gas since speeding is easy to do in vehicles that accelerate quickly and quietly to impressively high speeds. But when driving a vehicle like this — one that’s not yours! — safety is paramount. Take care to obey the posted speed limits to avoid dangerous driving and potential accidents. The last thing you want to do is ruin your luxury experience with an expensive accident.
Know the Consequences
When you take the risk to drive in a dangerous and unsafe manner, there are always going to be consequences for your actions. At best, you will receive a traffic citation from law enforcement. At worst, you will cause a collision resulting in damaged vehicles and potentially deadly injuries to others and yourself. Additionally, every accident and citation raises your insurance premium as well. Talk to your insurance company to make sure you understand your policy and what is covered. If you know your out-of pocket costs, you may be even more inclined to drive cautiously.
Whether driving your daily commute to work, embarking on a road trip or renting a fancy car on vacation, under all circumstances it is important to drive safely and responsibly. Your wallet and, most importantly, your life depend on it.
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