Some collisions are unavoidable, but defensive driving practices can give you the time to react to unexpected conditions on the road. Along with preventing injuries and collisions, driving defensively also minimizes the risk of traffic tickets, which can drive your car insurance rates. Below is an overview of defensive driving and how it can keep you safe behind the wheel.

What Is Defensive Driving?

Defensive driving is a set of habits, but it’s also an attitude. To drive defensively means staying alert, preparing for the unexpected, and avoiding risky maneuvers. These habits and techniques can allow you to move around an obstacle in the road, get out of a drunk driver’s way, or stop in an emergency.

What Are Some Common Defensive Driving Techniques?

Speed limits are calculated to maximize safety based on road conditions and traffic patterns. Obeying the limits any time you’re on the road helps ensure you can slow down in time to avoid an accident. This basic driving habit can also prevent speeding tickets, which may cause your car insurance rates to spike.

You may consider yourself a competent driver, but that doesn’t mean other motorists won't make mistakes. Avoid driving in another vehicle’s blind spot, and don’t assume that a car that is slowing down will turn. Expecting erratic movements from other drivers will give you the time to respond appropriately, potentially preventing an accident.

While you can’t control other drivers’ actions, you can eliminate risky behavior of your own. Never drink and drive, even if you feel sober, and avoid distractions when you’re behind the wheel. Even looking at your phone for a second can take your eyes off the road long enough to cause a collision.

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