If you or a loved one has ever been in a car accident, you know how difficult it can be to recover mentally, physically and financially. Many collisions are caused by human error, meaning every driver must be aware of other people on the road and ready to react to changing circumstances. This practice, known as defensive driving, is the best way to ensure your safety. The following guide outlines three critical steps to becoming a more engaged, proactive motorist.

Avoid Distractions

One out of every four car accidents in the United States is a result of texting while driving. To combat this alarming statistic, 12 states, including New York, have banned drivers from using their cell phones. However, distracted driving goes beyond phones and includes navigation, eating and drinking, and music devices. If you need to program or check your GPS, enter your destination before you start driving and pull over if you get lost. Avoid looking down at your radio or navigation system for long periods to ensure your eyes are always on the road. Eat before you leave or stop if you must.

Follow the Car Lengths Rule

If you need to come to a complete stop quickly, having enough space between you and the car in front of you can help prevent a collision. When you were in driving school, you may have learned about the car lengths rule, meaning another vehicle should fit between you and the car ahead of you. To ensure you’re leaving enough space, pick a stationary object, such as a sign or a light, and begin counting when the driver in front of you passes that landmark. You should be able to count to three before passing the same object. This will give you enough time and distance to stop safely in the event of an emergency.

Have an Escape Plan

Periodically checking your surroundings is important for effective defensive driving. Look at your side view mirrors, avoid driving parallel with another car at high speeds, and know whether you have a shoulder available in case you need to pull over. If someone swerves into your lane, or another vehicle pulls out in front of your car, knowing what is happening around you will help you stop or change lanes in time.

For over 70 years, the Morgan School of Driving has helped people in the Rochester, NY, area improve their defensive driving skills. From new drivers preparing for their road tests to experienced motorists looking to brush up on their skills, the school’s experienced teachers provide high-quality instruction that covers a broad range of topics. To enroll in driving lessons, call (585) 425-2410 to reach their Fairport location, (585) 288-6290 to reach their Rochester branch, or (585) 227-9010 to reach their Greece school. Visit them online to learn more about their courses.