It takes an immense amount of practice, learning and, naturally, talent to become a racing driver. But perhaps we are not revealing a big secret by saying that even a racing driver can sometimes commit mistakes. So, what should an everyday driver do, if in line with their options, skills, and talent they would like to avoid accidents and driving technique glitches? We’ll show you 5+1 tips for avoiding a collision and protecting your own integrity and that of your car!
It is worth thinking about: Why do we make mistakes? Today, driving is part of our everyday lives. From generation to generation, the use of vehicles has penetrated our everyday life at an increasing pace. Today, we find more and more new drivers on the road each day. This essentially means two things: a constantly increasing number of cars, and with it, unfortunately, more traffic, as well. Busy roads are unavoidable, which also increases the number of accidents. Stressed driving on busy roads requires increased attention and a higher level of mental resilience, as well.
Avoid the most common mistakes!
1. Keep the right distance between vehicles!
You will not arrive any sooner by not keeping the right distance between vehicles, which also exposes you to a doubled risk of collisions: you could run into the car in front of you, or the car behind you could run into you if you need to brake suddenly. Even experienced drivers can have an “overrun” accident, as it is no use thinking that we will be able to brake in time in a given situation: the braking distance of our car does not depend on our perception alone. In addition, failing to observe the right distance has a negative effect on our system, as well: it can cause up to 80% of stress felt while driving.
2. Do not be impatient – you would not gain anything, in any case
Speeding is not a solution – not only because it is dangerous, but also because one does not actually gain any time with it. The truth is, whether we are talking about driving in a city or on the motorway, we always need to think in terms of average speed. In urban traffic the average speed of a car is 35-40 km/h. So, there is no point driving at 60, 80, or even 100 km/h – it is only an illusion that we will arrive somewhere sooner. We need to think in averages, and due to reasons beyond our control the average speed in a city is unlikely to exceed 40 km/h. Therefore, slow and steady advance can be more successful then occasional speeding, which is also rather risky, as well as punishable.
3. Avoid drivers using their mobile phone and don’t be afraid to use the horn
In an ideal world nobody would use their mobile phone while driving, but reality shows a far sadder picture. If you see a driver using their mobile phone, try to get as far away from them as possible, as they are also putting the integrity of your car at risk. If you encounter a distracted, telephoning, or uncertain driver, do not be afraid to warn them with a horn blast (especially if they are approaching the lane you are travelling in alongside them without using their indicator). A firm decision taken in time could save you from a nasty accident. The prohibition of mobile phone use applies to everyone, of course, as this bad habit increases the risk of an accident sixfold with respect to getting behind the wheel intoxicated.
4. Lack of experience, fear of traffic
With less experienced drivers it can happen that they feel that they are holding up everyone behind them, so they drive faster than they should. This is not a good solution at all, as it can lead to unexpected situations, fines, or even accidents. Do not be afraid of the traffic following you, and in such cases, too, observe the applicable speed limit.
5. Fear of aggressive drivers
While driving on the motorway it frequently happens that a driver with a faster and more powerful car tries to force us to accelerate or simply push us off the road so that they can progress faster. In such situations you must not get into the game, and if possible, you should let the stronger party have their way. Slow down, let the car behind you overtake you – if necessary, change lanes to let them do so. Never put the physical integrity of yourself and others at risk by trying to drive even faster, as the combination of stress and speed can be extremely dangerous.
+1. After washing the car do not forget to test the brakes
One may not even imagine that such small negligence can cause surprises in live situations. Water on the brake discs temporarily alters the braking power, so it is worth testing the brakes after each time the car is washed.