How to Avoid Collisions When Driving

Bad weather, mechanical failure and poorly maintained roadways may contribute to collisions. More collisions, however, are caused by driver error than by any other factor. The tragedy is that nearly all collisions could have been prevented. Safe driving habits are simple, but in today's hectic driving world, they are often overlooked, forgotten or simply ignored. Collisions can be avoided by following these simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Automobile
  • Know where you are going and how to get there. Always plan your entrance, direction and exit.

  • Stay two seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. Allow four seconds in bad weather.

  • Watch 15 to 20 seconds ahead for cars braking, entering and exiting.

  • Look around very carefully at intersections. Then proceed with caution and do not assume anything.

  • Concentrate on your own driving. At the same time, be aware of other drivers, pedestrians and driving conditions.

  • Slow down. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and greatly increases impact and injuries.

  • Check all mirrors often for other vehicles and always know where your car is in relation to the other vehicles on the road.

  • Signal every time you change lanes.