Whether you are new in town or have been driving for a couple of years. Defensive driving in your car, be it rented or owned, can be the best way to stay safe on the road. Moreover, getting pulled over by the police can be a nightmare, as it may result in fines or other legal formalities. So let’s look at a few tips to help you drive defensively:

 

Be Attentive

Accidents can happen due to any form of negligence while driving. Always be attentive and keep your focus on the road. You must always refrain from losing your focus due to phone calls, social media notifications or any other distraction. An empty street does not permit you to recreate a scene from “Fast & Furious”. Always abide by the rules and regulations and follow the speed limit. If you are feeling sleepy, turn up the music or pull into a rest area for a quick shut-eye.

 

Know the traffic rules

Make sure you thoroughly learn and understand the rules of the road. If you are from out of town, it is always a good practice to do some prior research when you are planning your journey. You may encounter things like the driver’s seat on the different side of the car and the oncoming traffic falling to your left instead of what you are used to. These are some changes which you can expect when you are visiting a city like Dubai.

 

Other drivers are bad drivers

As your not the only one on the road, it’s always good to assume that other drivers are really bad at driving. You may be generous to other drivers, but it might not be the same with their driving habits. With this assumption, you can keep your vehicle safe and prepare for the worst.

 

Keep an eye on the weather

If the roads are slick and wet, drive at slower speeds and adapt your braking, while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Always wear your seatbelts and ensure your vehicle is ready for harsh weather conditions.

 

To conclude, defensive driving is being aware and alert when you drive your vehicle. It’s a practice that can keep you and other road users safe. 

 

 Do you have any tips for driving defensively? Let us know in the comments below.