Get Defensive About Safe Driving

You never use your cell phone while driving, never text behind the wheel, and do not engage in any distracted driving behavior. That means you are a defensive driver, right? Wrong. What about the other guy? You might be thinking, why should I have to worry about what others drivers are doing? Think of it this way, if you are in an auto accident, the best case scenario, you escape injuries, but your auto insurance goes up. Worst case scenario, you or someone else loses their life. Remember, you were just thinking, why should I have to worry about what others drivers are doing? Well, guess what? The other driver is thinking the same thing, and he might be presenting a real danger.

Vehicle Stars published a list of potentially life saving tips every motorist should keep in mind on our roadways. I thought they were worthy of sharing with my readers.

Defensive driving includes avoiding distractions, but motorists must also be aware of the driving habits of others. There is a lot to learn from their mistakes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the top six causes of auto accidents are:

1. Distracted Drivers
2. Fatigue
3. Drunk Driving
4. Speeding
5. Aggressive Driving
6. Inclement Weather

Most auto accidents are avoidable, and one of the best ways to avoid them is not getting behind the wheel in a state of mind that would lead to a dangerous situation and practicing defensive driving skills. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice these defensive driving tips:

1. Mental approach. There are always some motorists who will do something stupid, so keep a safe distance.
2. Awareness. Constantly check mirrors and scan the road well ahead, lookout for potential hazards. Anticipate.
3. Trust no one. Do not assume other drivers will notice you, especially when merging or approaching a red light.
4. Escape plan. Position your vehicle where you can see and be seen; allow space to move out of danger on short notice
5. Keep a distance. The greater the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, the more time you have to react.
6. Evaluate the risks. Key all risks in mind at all times. Your attention may be drawn to an aggressive driver rather than one using the cell phone, but both are a threat.

Mark Bello has thirty-three years experience as a trial lawyer and twelve years as an underwriter and situational analyst in the lawsuit funding industry. He is the owner and founder of Lawsuit Financial Corporation which helps provide legal finance cash flow solutions and consulting when necessities of life litigation funding is needed by plaintiffs involved in pending, personal injury litigation. Bello is a Justice Pac member of the American Association for Justice, Sustaining and Justice Pac member of the Michigan Association for Justice, Business Associate of the Florida, Tennessee, and Colorado Associations for Justice, a member of the American Bar Association as well as their ABA Advisory Committee, the State Bar of Michigan and the Injury Board.