Driving Habits Part 2 – What NOT To Do

If you recall, last week’s blog discussed driving habits that make for a safer drive every time. As we mentioned before, defensive driving does not mean submissive driving, rather proactively avoiding hazardous situations.

This week, we wanted to list the biggest culprits of BAD driving habits!

Defensive Driving: What NOT to Do

1. Allowing distractions to happen

Cell phones are the biggest culprit. Even hands-free phone calls can be distracting because the conversation still takes your mind off the road. For more information on this biggest driving distraction, see our blog here!

2. Bringing your emotions to the road

This includes both aggressive driving and making excuses. When it comes to your safety, these kinds of habits do not fly.

Road rage can happen to the best of us. You may not think so, but passive-aggressive tailgating in the left lane is just as bad a habit as being that total jerk all over the road. Darting in and out of lanes, ignoring right-of-way rules, etc. You don’t want to be that guy, so don’t let the anger get to you!

And excuses are just as bad – being late is no reason to speed. Not seeing anyone does not mean you can ignore stop signs. Just because other people break the rules does not mean you get to as well. 

3. Driving while exhausted

Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol of other substances! Think about it: commercial drivers are often required to keep logs to ensure they are getting rest on the road. Would you pass for being well rested? 

4. Ignoring hazards

These can be environmental, such as poor weather conditions, but that’s just one example.  Pedestrians, animals, construction, or flying debris means taking extra precautions, so be prepared to react accordingly.

What other bad driving habits do you see on the road? Let us know in the comments below!