수원운전연수 Driving can be chaotic, and while many people treat it as an exercise in getting from point A to point B, there are several rules of etiquette that can save lives and prevent road rage.
For example, if another driver lets you merge in front of them, it’s polite to wave and mouth “thank you” as you pass. Here are 8 other rules of driving etiquette you should always remember.
1. Turn on your turn signal
If you’re looking to change lanes, it’s important to turn on your turn signal before doing so. This will let drivers behind you know what you’re planning to do and give them time 수원운전연수 to slow down or move over if necessary.
Failing to use your turn signal can lead to a number of accidents, including some that may be fatal. In fact, a study by the Society of Automotive Engineers found that nearly two million car crashes each year are caused by turn signal errors.
While it may seem obvious that you should use your turn signal before changing lanes, many people overlook this simple step. When you’re nearing the lane you wish to merge into, activate your turn signal and slowly begin merging. Be sure to check your blind spot before slamming on the brakes, as unseen cars may have moved into your path without you knowing it.
2. Don’t cut in at the last minute
While we all understand road laws, driving etiquette is something that most people don’t think about when it comes to being behind the wheel. However, there are a few general rules of etiquette that can make the highways less stressful and safer for everyone on them.
For example, never tailgate someone. This is not only rude, but it can also be dangerous for you and the driver in front of you. It’s not a 수원운전연수 good idea to change lanes in the middle of traffic either. This forces drivers behind you to suddenly brake or steer in order not to hit you, which could cause a serious accident.
Another common mistake is loitering in the left lane, which is for passing only. This can create an impenetrable roadblock for drivers in the right lane, and it’s illegal in some states. Additionally, don’t block parking lot entrances or exits when you’re rolling to a stop.
3. Stay in your lane
Staying in the center of your lane is one of the most important driving skills you’ll learn as a new driver. This helps keep you and other drivers safe by creating more space between your car and dangerous situations.
When you’re driving on a freeway, staying in the center of your lane is more important than on other types of roads. Freeways have multiple lanes in each direction and speeds are higher. This allows for traffic to move more efficiently and prevents dangerous swerving.
To help you stay centered in your lane, make sure to check your side mirrors regularly and look at the road ahead of you. Also, remember to leave a 3 second space cushion between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This will give you time to adjust your speed and avoid a potential collision. It’s also important to give parked cars a little extra space as well.
4. Keep your distance from the car in front of you
When driving, it’s important to leave a reasonable amount of space between your car and the one in front of you. Doing so will ensure that you have the time and space to stop if something unexpected happens up ahead of you. This is a great way to avoid tailgating, which can lead to dangerous and expensive accidents. Also, if you’re behind a vehicle with a lot of cargo or a farm equipment (or a specialized construction vehicle), it’s important to add an additional second to your normal following distance, as these vehicles are harder to control on roadways and may come to sudden stops.
While most of us remember all the laws and regulations we need to follow during driver’s ed, there are some other driving manners that might slip our minds from time to time. These unspoken rules meet at the intersection of safety and courteousness and can help make highways a safer, less stressful place to drive.
5. Keep your distance from the car in front of you
It’s a good idea to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. This is especially important when traveling on a highway or freeway. Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents, so keeping a safe following distance can help prevent them.
You can easily determine your safe following distance by finding a fixed point ahead of you (like an overpass, a utility pole, or a shadow across the road) and counting. When the vehicle in front of you passes the fixed point before you reach the count of “one thousand three,” then you have a safe following distance.
It’s also polite to give drivers on the side a route of escape if they need to change lanes or make turns. Changing lanes abruptly can force the driver behind you to slam on their brakes or steer to avoid hitting you, which is a dangerous and stressful situation for everyone involved.
6. Be courteous to pedestrians
Walking is a healthy option for getting from point A to point B and it also helps improve the environment. However, it is important to keep in mind that pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the road.
Drivers should be courteous and attentive to pedestrians at all times, especially around driveways and parking lots. These areas can be difficult to see in and out of and pedestrians may not always be where you expect them to be. Make sure to look in your rearview mirrors and side-mirrors before backing up. If you’re turning at a crosswalk, it is also essential to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. If you’re driving too fast, it could be dangerous for you and the pedestrian.
Be a courteous driver and be a positive role model for those around you. It will not only benefit your own driving habits, but it’ll make the roadways a safer place for everyone to drive on.