{"id":802,"date":"2021-07-21T09:59:50","date_gmt":"2021-07-21T16:59:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sjlawtexas.wpengine.com\/?p=802"},"modified":"2024-03-28T08:19:49","modified_gmt":"2024-03-28T15:19:49","slug":"the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/","title":{"rendered":"The Keys to Safer, Defensive Driving"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Scan_and_Anticipate\" title=\"Scan and Anticipate\">Scan and Anticipate<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Scan_Conditions_Far_Ahead\" title=\"Scan Conditions Far Ahead\">Scan Conditions Far Ahead<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Predict_Risks\" title=\"Predict Risks\">Predict Risks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Watch_Out_for_Unsafe_Drivers\" title=\"Watch Out for Unsafe Drivers\">Watch Out for Unsafe Drivers<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Implement_Basic_Safety_Practices\" title=\"Implement Basic Safety Practices\">Implement Basic Safety Practices<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Keep_Your_Distance\" title=\"Keep Your Distance\">Keep Your Distance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Remain_Vigilant_and_Focused\" title=\"Remain Vigilant and Focused\">Remain Vigilant and Focused<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Avoid_Blind_Spots\" title=\"Avoid Blind Spots\">Avoid Blind Spots<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Lane_Safety\" title=\"Lane Safety\">Lane Safety<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Always_Signal\" title=\"Always Signal\">Always Signal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Travel_in_the_Safe_Lanes\" title=\"Travel in the Safe Lane(s)\">Travel in the Safe Lane(s)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Stay_in_Your_Lane\" title=\"Stay in Your Lane\">Stay in Your Lane<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/the-keys-to-safer-defensive-driving\/#Get_the_Help_You_Deserve\" title=\"Get the Help You Deserve\">Get the Help You Deserve<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Defensive driving is exactly what it sounds like \u2013 driving in a manner that allows you to assess predictable hazards and avoid dangerous scenarios. Defensive driving tactics are not limited to a basic understanding of traffic laws and procedures. Rather, they can help motorists to improve driving skills while minimizing driving risks by identifying situations and making well-informed decisions. If you are reading about defensive driving because you were recently injured in a Las Vegas area car crash, the experienced injury lawyers at SJW Injury Attorneys can help. Please feel free to contact us at <strong>(702) 591-8007<\/strong>. Initial consultations are completely free.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/samuele-errico-piccarini-qAc3UNF8Hm4-unsplash.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-26088\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Learning about defensive driving strategies and putting them into practice allows for a much safer driving experience. Defensive drivers can make strategic decisions based on a variety of both road and environmental conditions. Here are some strategies you can implement to be a safer, more defensive driver:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scan_and_Anticipate\"><\/span>Scan and Anticipate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Assessing possible risks and dangers is a key element of being a safe, defensive driver. Through assessment and planning, you can avoid a plethora of dangerous outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"margin-left:10%;\"><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scan_Conditions_Far_Ahead\"><\/span>Scan Conditions Far Ahead<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of solely focusing on the car in front of you, expand your focus to take in what is happening farther ahead of you. You will be better equipped to identify possible hazardous conditions and safely maneuver around them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Predict_Risks\"><\/span>Predict Risks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While looking at conditions ahead of your vehicle, you will likely be prepared to spot potentially harmful situations. When you see these hazards, it\u2019s important to take action to avoid them. Quickly assess and determine whether actions should or should not be taken. For example, if you are behind a truck carrying furniture that does not look secure, signal and move lanes when it is safe to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Watch_Out_for_Unsafe_Drivers\"><\/span>Watch Out for Unsafe Drivers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For whatever reason, drivers can be distracted or impaired while operating their vehicles. It is an important, defensive strategy to constantly be on the lookout for these types of drivers. Whether it\u2019s the driver who is consistently on the verge of running red lights or making traffic moves without signaling, it\u2019s important to watch for these vehicles and distance yourself as quickly and as safely as possible.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Implement_Basic_Safety_Practices\"><\/span>Implement Basic Safety Practices<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Basic safety procedures may seem obvious, but actually applying them while driving can make a big difference on the road. Using these strategies will help keep you and your passengers safe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"margin-left:10%;\"><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep_Your_Distance\"><\/span>Keep Your Distance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Always take advantage of the three-second rule while driving. This rule means that you should always have three seconds of driving time (based on the speed you are operating at) between you and the vehicle directly in front of you. It\u2019s also a good idea to make sure motorists around you have plenty of room to move around you in the event of an unexpected traffic flow change. And if this takes you back to Driver\u2019s Ed, good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remain_Vigilant_and_Focused\"><\/span>Remain Vigilant and Focused<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It should go without saying, but while driving, you must limit distractions and remain focused on the task at hand. That means doing the following while driving:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul style=\"margin-left:5%;\"><li>Do not check your cell phone or any other type of electronic while driving.<\/li><li>Stay alert. If you find yourself daydreaming or struggling to stay awake, pull over and take a catnap.<\/li><li>Pay attention to what\u2019s happening on the road, not on what\u2019s happening inside your vehicle.<\/li><li>Anything outside of your vehicle that has nothing to do with driving safely is not a priority. That means no slowing down to look at an accident or other external activity. Pay attention to the cars around you.<\/li><li>Avoid personal-care activities like eating, smoking, or putting on makeup while driving.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_Blind_Spots\"><\/span>Avoid Blind Spots<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just because you are being diligent and practicing defensive driving does not necessarily mean all the other motorists around you are practicing the same strategies. Other drivers could be distracted or tired and may fail to check their blind spot before a lane change. Staying out of their blind spot will protect everyone involved.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lane_Safety\"><\/span>Lane Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you or the drivers around you change lanes, you increase the chance of collision. By executing the following practices you will decrease lane change dangers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"margin-left:5%;\"><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Always_Signal\"><\/span>Always Signal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you change lanes, make sure the drivers around you have ample time to notice your intent by using your blinkers or hand signals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_in_the_Safe_Lanes\"><\/span>Travel in the Safe Lane(s)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When entering and exiting highways, the far right lane is the most crowded, and the far left lane is for passing other drivers. If you are commuting far distances, or on a long road trip, avoiding those two lanes is the safer option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stay_in_Your_Lane\"><\/span>Stay in Your Lane<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Try to avoid continuously changing lanes. Unnecessarily going in and out of lanes and darting around cars greatly increases your chances of being involved in an accident. Also, if you notice another motorist who is driving dangerously fast or constantly changing lanes, it would be wise to slow down and give that driver a chance to pass you.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_the_Help_You_Deserve\"><\/span>Get the Help You Deserve<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Defensive driving does take more work and focus, but it <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/journal\/accident-analysis-and-prevention\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">drastically decreases<\/a> your chances of getting into an accident. Since not all motorists practice defensive driving tactics, however, accidents on the road are always possible \u2013 regardless of how vigilant you are. If you have been in an accident, we can help you here at <a href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/\">SJW Injury Attorneys<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><a href=\"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/contact\/\">Contact our car accident attorneys<\/a> in Las Vegas, Nevada for help.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Defensive driving is exactly what it sounds like \u2013 driving in a manner that allows you to assess predictable hazards and avoid dangerous scenarios. Defensive driving tactics are not limited to a basic understanding of traffic laws and procedures.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":31487,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=802"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37931,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/802\/revisions\/37931"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31487"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=802"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=802"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjwinjurylaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=802"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}