by Sam Smart

Created on: January 08, 2013

Sometimes when you’re on the road, unexpected things happen.  Such frustration might make you lean on your horn, or perhaps shout at drivers, which both are considered aggressive behavior that can be tolerated.  To be a good driver, you not only have to maintain a good attitude, but you must also understand road rules and pay attention at all times. 

• Don’t drive too fast

This is a common problem that causes accidents on the road: Drivers going too fast.  Pay attention to those speed limit signs.  Not only that can prevent a speeding ticket, it shows courtesy for other drivers and pedestrians, especially in cities.  They’ll be able to cross the street safely once the driver slows down.  There should be no excuses for driving too fast.  If you’re in a hurry, the least you can do is to keep your cool and not go above the speed limit.  And plan ahead from now on, too.

• Avoid playing loud music

Playing loud, thumping music from the radio can be especially distracting for some drivers, because they might not be able to hear what’s around them.  Even some neighborhood cities prohibit boisterous music coming from cars; that too might startle some people.  You as a driver might not be able to hear what’s around you, either, because there may be a siren from an ambulance or police car coming out of nowhere, and you must pull over for it to pass.  It’s certainly enjoyable to listen to some music while driving, but don’t leave the volume on too high.

• Drive in lanes safely

It’s a good idea to choose a lane and use it properly.  In places where traffic is heavy, don’t weave in and out just because there’s always someone who drives too slowly for you.  In other words, avoid cutting who’s behind you.  This goes the same for tailgating; don’t follow the vehicle too closely.  You need to have plenty of room for braking, and in some cases, tailgating results in a small traffic violation.

• No littering

Littering is disrespectful for cities, towns, and countries.  While driving, be courteous and keep the area clean by not tossing empty cans, paper or other trash out the car window.  Certainly do not throw away things that could cause fires, such as lighted cigarettes.  See if you can get a small plastic trash bag to hang near your steering wheel so you don’t have to litter while on the street.

• Keep your cool

Having a positive attitude will benefit not only the drivers, but yourself.  Aggressive behavior that involves a lot of shouting or honking does cause traffic accidents.  Don’t use your horn so you could make the traffic move more quickly.  Just sit and be patient.

• Obey other traffic rules

Take heed on all other traffic rules to make the streets safe.  Stop signs are meant for stopping; do indeed stop.  Don’t run through red signal lights, since they work just like stop signs.  Avoid texting and using cell phones while driving, because that’s a very dangerous thing to do.

Please remember that vehicles are not toys.  Good drivers are always patient and they treat fellow drivers and pedestrians with courtesy.  Doing so will prevent accidents of all kinds.

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