Reducing Accident Risk by Driving Smart

When trying to preserve your life and your money, one of the best things to do is reduce your daily risk exposure. By keeping yourself, your family and your property safe you will reduce your overall expenses and make your life much easier—especially when you reduce your risks of a car accident. The easiest way to do this is simply by driving smart.

• Observe basic traffic laws: Traffic laws were developed to promote the safety of everyone on the road. Without these measures, people could drive whatever speed they wanted, stop and go when they pleased, and act in a way that leaves you at risk. By following speed limits, observing traffic lights and signs, avoiding texting and complying with other basic traffic laws, you reduce your risk of accident immediately.
• Leave early: When you have an appointment, it’s a good idea to leave the house as early as possible in order to avoid traffic and stress. When you rush to make it to an appointment on time you may make poorer driving decisions in your desire to get to your destination quickly.
• Don’t follow close: Tailgating is a great way to have an accident no matter what time of the night or day that you drive. Generally, it’s a good idea to follow the three-second rule, as that will leave enough room between your vehicle and the one ahead. The three second rule means that you can count to three (using the one-one-thousand method) before passing the same spot as the vehicle in front of you.
• Minimize distraction: Everyone knows that cell phones can be distracting to drivers, but so too can food and drinks, the radio, and other passengers. As a driver, it’s up to you to control your environment. Understand what distracts you while you drive and make sure to adjust the environment so that you can reduce your likelihood of being distracted.
• Learn defensive driving: Not every accident that can occur is your fault, so it’s helpful to also learn how to drive defensively and avoid the mistakes of other drivers. Not only can a defensive driving course keep your car and family safe, it can also save money on your car insurance.

As a driver, you are in charge of your vehicle. Take control and reduce the risk of accidents and claims by driving smart. For Chicago auto insurance quotes or to find out if you need to increase your coverage, give us a call at Oxford Insurance Group.