When someone spends years driving, they become confident in their skills as a driver. This confidence is often a good thing but can also come with negative consequences. When someone is too confident in themselves, they may take their safety for granted and develop bad driving habits.
Overconfidence may add to the fact that one in seven drivers does not wear their seatbelt. Eliminating bad habits can help keep yourself and others safe on the road. Here are five common bad driving habits that you can avoid to stay safe while driving:
Speeding
If you are driving over the speed limit, other drivers may not react in time to your movement. Speeding also limits your ability to respond to unexpected obstacles on the road.
Using your cellphone
Cellphones are a major distraction for drivers. Even those who do not text while driving can still get into an accident for updating their GPS or taking a call.
Eating and driving
Eating while behind the wheel is more of a threat than you may expect. Reaching over to grab some fries or clean up a spilled drink can take enough of your attention to have you cause an accident.
Tailgating
Getting too close to the driver in front of you is rarely a safe decision. If the driver in front of you needs to come to an immediate stop, it is likely that you will rear-end them.
Not using your turn signals
It is always important to tell other drivers your intentions on the road. If you are about to make a turn and not one expects you to, the results can be disastrous.
Never take your safety for granted
It is easy to forget how suddenly an accident can occur. Ensure that you are doing your part to be a safe driver and make the road safer for everyone.