Defensive Driving Tips

Every time a Charlotte driver gets into their vehicle, they never have the same driving experience. There are constantly different drivers on the road that create the experience and conditions around you. Nevertheless, it’s important to be able to react well to whatever situation comes your way. This is when defensive driving comes in. If you’re not familiar with the term, it basically means that you work to avoid accidents and injury by being aware of your surroundings, as well as reacting quickly and accordingly to each individual situation. Here at Toyota of N Charlotte, we know the importance of defensive driving within your drive time, which is why we’re giving you more details on how to put it into practice.

How Be a Defensive Driver in Your N Charlotte Toyota

Don’t get distracted
Put down your phone, keep your eyes on the road and focus on the task at hand. Your goal is to get from Point A to Point B in one piece. If you must have music playing while driving on the road, make a playlist and start the music before changing the gear shift to drive. And if you’re expected an important phone call, while behind the wheel, take a look at our Bluetooth streaming technology our N Charlotte Toyotas have to offer.

  Be engaged and aware
Similar to the first tip, you need to be 100% engaged and focused on the road. Therefore, if you’re sleepy or have had a little too much to drink, do not get behind the wheel. Both conditions impair your judgement and reflexes to react to any situation.

  Be aware of other drivers
Defensive driving not only means you should focus on what you’re doing, you should also be aware of other vehicles around you. It’ll help you anticipate any accidents sooner, which will allow you to avoid it or lessen the damages.

  Maintain a 4 second rule
When you’re behind the wheel of your N Charlotte Toyota, having a small gap between you and the car in front of you will definitely be of great help to being able to take time to react to any situation. For instance, if the car in front of you suddenly slams on their brakes and you have enough distance between it, then you succeed at preventing a fender bender.

  Have an escape route
This defensive driving technique goes hand in hand with maintaining a 4 second rule and being aware of other drivers around you. Again, if the Charlotte vehicle in front of you slams their brakes, you need to have an alternate route to escape it. You might have to quickly swerve out of the lane or even slam on the brakes yourself. Whichever the case, make sure you use your best judgment for the situation.

  Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and animals
When driving your N Charlotte Toyota, other vehicles aren’t the only thing you should watch out for. Pedestrians, cyclists, and animals are unpredictable when you’re on the road. So keep your eyes on the road so you can keep you and the others safe.

  Follow the speed limit and other basic rules
Speed limits are designated for a reason. If you don’t follow them you can risk getting a ticket or even worse, getting into collision. As for other rules, make sure to use your blinkers, headlights, taillights, etc.

Once you get these defensive driving tips down packed, your driving experience will definitely be smoother and safer. Now to make sure your car is in good shape for the road. Schedule service today by calling (407)659-2025.