Even Good Drivers Make Mistakes

Teens are constantly hearing about the need to avoid the critical dangers that could lead to an auto crash: never driving under the influence, buckling up, hanging up the cell phone and the list goes on. So what about the driver that has all those covered? He or she can still present a crash risk by making common mistakes that even safe drivers make (including adults). Consider these additional tips to keep that clean driving record intact.

Don’t get comfortable

You are following the rules of the road and your car is equipped with all the latest safety features — so you have nothing to worry about, right? Not necessarily. In a constantly changing environment, you need to keep on the look-out for other drivers and dangerous situations.

Despite the latest advances in automobile safety technology, Jim Gill of Continental Automotive Systems, the company that pioneered electronic stability systems, warns not to let safety features give you a false sense of security. Instead, remain alert at all times and devote your full attention to driving.

Eliminate all distractions

Experts say nearly all crashes involve driver inattention. Just because you are not using your cell phone to call or text message a friend does not mean it is okay to sort through your CD collection or toggle through songs on your ipod while driving.

Drivers who use cell phones are four times more likely to get into a crash; however, drivers who choose not to use cell phones need to realize there are other distractions that can take their eyes off the road.

Resist the temptation to multi-task. Wait until you get home to tear open that barbecue sauce for your chicken nuggets and pull over to check your MapQuest directions. Stay focused and remember what a driver’s job is to do: drive.

Green means wait

Another way to drive defensively includes watching for other drivers that cruise through red lights or drift through stop signs. Do not assume that a green light gives you a safe right-of-way.

Upon getting a green light at an intersection, look both ways before proceeding. Many drivers try to beat lights and others are simply not paying attention to the lights. Also, be sure to come to a complete stop at stop signs and do not assume that other cars will do the same.

Know your limits

Just because you have mastered the art of driving around your neighborhood does not mean you are ready to take on a four-lane highway. Avoid it until you feel confident that you are up to the task.

Feeling drowsy? Experts say fatigue is another form of impairment that poses a threat to your safety.

Understand that you will continue to learn and perfect the rules of the road and there are limits to how, when and where you should drive. It’s okay to decide not to drive if you are not comfortable with the conditions.

Parts of this story were taken from the article “Five Mistakes Good Drivers Make” by Lisa Gensheimer.

Students from Sherwood High School in Olney, Md. are working at making all their students better drivers.