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How to Be a Defensive Driver

Distracted driving and aggressive driving are the two main causes of car accidents. The best way to counteract these drivers on the road is to increase the number of defensive drivers – drivers who are aware and prepared for anything.

“Defensive driving” simply refers to driving in a way that gives the person the best possible chance of preventing and avoiding collisions. There are many defensive driving techniques that everyone should eventually learn and implement, but our Sacramento car accident attorney has compiled a summary of the three defensive driving techniques every driver should know.

Keep reading for helpful info and be sure to call Eliot Reiner, APLC if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted or reckless driver!

1. Minimize Distractions While Driving

Put away the phone. “It can wait.” Driving is very much a thinking task. You need to think about the road conditions, the other cars and objects around you, the traffic patterns, rights-of-way, the speed limit, and more. The most important aspect of defensive driving is to remain focused and alert as you drive. Do not text, talk on the phone, eat, apply makeup, watch videos, or read while you are behind the wheel. Put all of your focus into the task of driving safely.

2. Watch Out for Distracted & Reckless Drivers

Just because you practice defensive driving doesn’t mean everyone else does! Never assume that the cars around you are paying attention. Always anticipate the worst-case scenario and have an exit strategy in mind in case you need to get out of the way. Tips to help you be prepared for unexpected hazards on the road:

"The 4-Second Rule"

Leave a 3- to 4-second gap between your car and the car in front of you. This gives you plenty of time to stop safely and avoid rear-ending someone if they unexpected slam on their brakes.

Watch Out for Blind Spots

Do not let other drivers ride in your “blind spots” to the left and right of your car. If you notice someone pull into your blind spot and sit there, then you can safely speed up or slow down until you can easily see them again.

Keeping your blind spots clear gives you somewhere to go in case you need to swerve out of your lane to avoid a hazard. It also prevents you from accidentally side-swiping someone when you change lanes. Remember to always look over your shoulder!

You should try to stay out of other drivers’ blind spots, as well. If they can’t see you, then they’re much more likely to hit you, so stay back or safely pass them.

Pay Attention to How Others Are Driving

Use your mirrors to constantly scan the traffic around you. Monitor how other people are driving. If you’re stopped at an intersection, but you’re paying attention to traffic and you see a car speeding up from the left to try and make the yellow light (but you know they’re going to run it), then don’t go as soon as the light turns green. Anticipating the worst can save your life.

Watch out for other drivers – because they won’t always be watching out for you.

3. Obey Traffic Laws

Traffic laws are in place to keep us safe on the road. Speed limits are intended to keep drivers at a speed that is safe for the conditions and environment of the road. Traffic signs and lights help vehicles travel in an orderly manner. The moment someone – including you – disregards those laws, the higher the chances are of a serious collision.

Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento? Give us a call!

Eliot Reiner, APLC can help you get fair compensation if you’ve been hit by a distracted or reckless driver. We boast a no-fee guarantee, which means you don’t pay us a cent unless we win your case! Our personal injury lawyers have a long history of proven success. Just check out our case results to see for yourself!

Our firm is dedicated to recovering fair compensation for the wrongfully injured. Call our office today to set up your free initial case review. Our team is standing by to help you!


Contact Us at (916) 778-3228 Today


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