As a responsible driver, you follow all traffic rules, secure dependable auto insurance, and treat other motorists conscientiously. While these actions are essential, there are other steps you must take to lower your risk of being involved in an accident. You can’t control the actions of other drivers, but you can ensure that you’re fully alert and aware while behind the wheel. 

How to Avoid Auto Accidents When Driving

1. Schedule Routine Vehicle Maintenance

Routine maintenance, like brake inspections, oil changes, and tire pressure checks, keep your vehicle in top shape. They also prevent breakdowns, which can quickly lead to accidents if they happen in fast-moving traffic. Brake problems are particularly hazardous, as they compromise your ability to stop your vehicle. 

2. Do Away With Distractions

The use of a mobile device behind the wheel is not the only driving distraction you need to banish. Eating while driving, talking to passengers, changing the radio station, and adjusting a GPS can also be highly distracting. When driving, focus all of your attention on the task at hand. If there is an urgent issue, pull your vehicle over in a safe area and do what you need to. 

3. Leave Room Between Vehicles

Motorists must leave a three-second window between their vehicles and others. That means it should take you at least three seconds to reach a landmark, such as a light pole, after the vehicle in front of you has passed it. This three-second window ensures you can react appropriately when faced with an unexpected road hazard. For instance, if a child runs in front of the vehicle in front of you, causing it to stop suddenly, your three-second window may prevent a rear-end collision. 

4. Stay Out of the Passing Lane

The passing lane, also known as the fast lane, serves an essential purpose. It allows drivers to bypass slower vehicles to keep the flow of traffic moving along nicely. After you’ve passed a vehicle, immediately transition back into the right lane so that you can safely maintain the speed limit. Driving at higher rates of speed increases your accident risk, and also increases the risk of severe damage or even injuries. 

While the above tips greatly reduce your risk of an accident, you must also have reliable auto insurance in place for maximum protection. Drivers in Scottsboro, AL, can’t go wrong with Goggans Insurance, which has provided top-tier insurance services for more than 30 years. They work with a large network of trusted carriers, including Nationwide® and Progressive®, which provides clients access to quality policies at reasonable prices. Learn more about securing auto insurance coverage online, or call (256) 574-3440 to request your quote.