Tips on how to be a better driver

There’s no doubt that driving a vehicle always poses known and unknown risks. The simple fact that you’re operating a heavy piece of machinery at high speeds while encountering other replicable machines on the road is a formula that has the potential to throw up several challenges. It’s also true that whether you’re a novice or an experienced driver, you are going to require the requisite skills to successfully navigate these challenges.

Here are some handy tips on how to be a better driver:

Place your hands correctly on the wheel

When you were first learning how to drive, you may have been taught to place your hands at “10 and 12” on the steering wheel. However, those guidelines have changed somewhat in the last few years, and it is now recommended that you place your hands somewhat lower on the wheel at either 8 and 4 or 9 and 3. This change reportedly gives you more control and stability and is the most ergonomic position to hold your hands for a considerable period of time.

Learn how to drive defensively

One of the golden rules of the road is that you should expect the unexpected. No matter how adept your driving skills are and no matter how much you follow the rules of the road, you cannot control how other drivers are going to behave on the road. The best way to counter unforeseen circumstances is to learn how to drive “defensively”. A defensive driving course will equip you with the skills to navigate all sorts of situations on the road.

Make sure your blind spots are covered

The so-called “blind spots” in your side mirrors are often a hazardous factor on the road, with many accidents caused by a driver’s inability to take their blind spot into consideration. There’s an easy way to overcome this: simply adjust your side mirrors so far outward that they’re overlapping your rear-view mirror. This simple action will ensure you eliminate your blind spot.

Never speed

With a fast-paced city lifestyle, we’ve all become more assertive and aggressive drivers, and many motorists overstep the speed limit while on the road. However, all you’re doing when speeding is increasing your chances of either getting into an accident or receiving a speeding ticket. Most importantly, studies have determined that you’re not more likely to get your destination any quicker on average, so it’s highly recommended that you drive at the recommended speeds.

Learn how to merge in traffic

Chaotic lane merges don’t only cause accidents but are also major contributors to road rage and accidents. While some drivers are aggressive lane cutters, other drivers politely wait their turn before merging into a lane. Unfortunately, one can’t expect every driver to be as accommodating as the latter type, so the most prudent solution is to be ultra-defensive when merging, while simultaneously having the confidence to not hold up traffic and take the lane plunge when the opportunity presents itself.

Once you’ve equipped yourself with the knowledge to become a better driver, you’re going to want to do everything in your power to keep your wheels. The best way to do this is to get a tracking device from Cartrack, especially considering we have a 91% audited rate for recovery. Contact us today to find out more.