When you’re behind the wheel, remaining aware of your surroundings, from construction obstacles to distracted fellow drivers, is crucial to your safety. While you can’t always drive on an open road, you can learn how to react and adjust to your environment to avoid accidents. If you’re hoping to avoid reaching out to a personal injury attorney, use these three pointers to become a better defensive driver.

3 Tips for Being a Defensive Driver

1. Keep Your Distance

Being vigilant and prepared will help you avoid auto accidents. Follow at least three to four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you so that you have enough time and distance to respond to any sudden brakes or movements they make. Increase this interval to six to eight seconds if you’re driving in inclement weather.

2. Stay Visible

When you’re driving on a multi-lane road, your top priority should be to remain visible to your fellow drivers. This means your car should always be within view of their eyes or mirrors. Large vehicles, like trucks, are known for having significant blind spots, such as 30 feet behind the rear bumper, or to the left of the truck, just behind the cab. As you approach a large truck, try to stay at least 30 feet behind it, so they can see you in their mirrors. If it pulls up beside you, stay ahead of the front bumper.

Get in the habit of driving with the headlights on regardless of light and weather conditions. Do not drive with only parking lights activated because that is illegal and does not make your vehicle sufficiently visible to other drivers. In poor visibility during daylight hours, such as in fog, heavy rain, or snow, turn on your high-beam headlights to keep other drivers alert to your presence on the road.

3. Keep Your Eyes on the Second Vehicle

From the driver’s seat, it’s easy to focus most on the cars closest to you, making sure they don’t cut into your lane or tail too closely. However, as a defensive driver, you need to learn how to be one step ahead.

When staring at the line of vehicles in front of you, keep your attention on the vehicle that’s two cars ahead. When that car slows down, you should press on the brake pedal. If you wait for the vehicle directly in front of you to start braking, you’ll have less time to come to a complete stop, as will the driver behind you.

If you happen to get into a car accident, place your trust in Burglin & Doxey, PC, of Fairbanks, AK. These accident injury attorneys are committed to helping clients get the compensation they need after a collision. For over 30 years, they’ve provided clients with personalized strategies, whether they’re dealing with auto repair bills or need guidance on their new business. To learn more about this respected firm, visit their website or call (907) 456-4020 to set up a consultation with an attorney.