Do you multi-task while you drive? Maybe you have to or you are confident to do that, however, "safety first" works for everyone!
Fatigue - Driving when Tired
To drive safe, for your sake, your loved ones’ and innocent eventual victims is something that drivers should always keep in mind. A vigilant driver however, constantly does that. There are though some things you should be aware of in driving, as danger can come stealthy:Falling asleep due to fatigue is a constant danger especially for long distance drives. Driving when you are tired can lead to disastrous consequences. It was estimated that 300 people a year are killed in the cases where the driver has fallen asleep at the wheel. Keep in mind that the risk of falling asleep while driving is the greatest between midnight and 6 am and 2-4 pm. This has the potential to affect all drivers, yet, people for whom driving is their job are evidently exposed more to this risk. The work related crashes represent 40% of the sleep related accidents and typically involve the commercial vehicles.
Also, drugs and alcohol consumption, as well as certain medicines can cause sleepiness making your body more tired. The worst part in such cases is that you don’t even feel or realize that you are more tired than usual.
Robert Schaller is an expert in defensive driving and traffic law so I will include some of his advice here:
"One of my common themes in teaching this topic is personal responsibility. We all have the obligation to make sure we are able to drive safely whenever we operate our vehicle. Ask yourself, "Am I safe to drive? Am I rested? Am I ill? Have I taken medications that might affect my abilities? Are my limbs available for use? Has it been long enough since I had that drink for the alcohol to have worked its way through my system?" (Generally, the body can eliminate one drink per hour, and, contrary to popular beliefs, nothing can speed up that process.) Do I have my glasses on, if needed?" Only if you can answer yes to all these questions should you exercise your privilege to drive.
I am convinced that if everyone would (1) not speed; (2) pay attention; (3) not drive impaired; and (4), wear seat belts (and use other safety systems such as air bags and ABS brakes), no one would ever get killed in a traffic collision. Just these four things, practiced habitually, would eliminate most serious collisions and save 50,000 lives each year. In the real world, though, we're human, and because we are, there will always be mistakes that lead to collisions. Since we do subject ourselves to hostile environments and physical forces that are incompatible with life, we should do everything possible to minimize the risks, yes? So, again, practice paying 100% attention to your driving, drive at a reasonable speed, never drive impaired, and buy and learn how to use safety systems correctly. These ideas are the foundation of any defensive driving "system.""
Tips for staying awake at the wheel:
a. Rest, take a break! Whenever you feel that you need one.
b. Prepare for your journey in such a way to take into account that you need a 15 minutes break every two hours of driving.
c. Drink coffee or some other high caffeine drink to keep you awake. This is an effective method of fighting fatigue.
d. If possible share the driving
e. If you feel you’re getting sleepy, it is best to find a safe place to stop as soon as possible. Once more I underline, a safe place is what you need, not the side of the highway, keep that in mind; you don’t want another sleepy driver to run you over. Tiredness kills!
f. Remember that being tired at the wheel represents a form of impairment because tiredness decreases your ability to operate your automobile securely.
Avoid "pressure driving". When you can, it is best to plan your trip early enough in order to drive safe. However, that is not always possible and when you are inevitably late, don’t try to make up for the time. Keep cool and keep in mind that you can’t afford any errors now…an accident is what you least need now. That’s why don’t stress about it, you could lose much more time in a collision!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Defensive Driving - A Way of Life
Annually, more than 40,000 people lose their life in automobile accidents each year. Another two million suffer disabling injuries. These startling statistics are from the National Safety Council. The amount of casualties could be reduced if more people learned to drive defensively.
No matter how careful or a skilled driver you are, high speeds, impaired or careless drivers, and not using occupant restraints correctly or not at all, threatens each person on the road.
We have all heard the term to drive defensively. This means that you take responsibility for yourself and your actions and in addition, you are always aware of the other driver's actions.
Below are some driving tips from the National Safety Council to help reduce risks on the road.
-- Do not start the engine without securing each passenger in the car, including children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of lives each year! Lock all doors.
-- Remember that driving too fast or too slow can increase the likelihood of collisions.
-- Do not kid yourself. If you plan to drink, designate a driver who will not drink. Alcohol is a factor in almost half of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.
-- Be alert! If you notice that a car is straddling the centerline, weaving, making wide turns, stopping abruptly, or responding slowly to traffic signals, the driver may be impaired.
-- Avoid an impaired driver by turning right at the nearest corner or exiting at the nearest exit. If it appears that an oncoming car is crossing into your lane, pull over to the roadside, sound the horn and flash your lights.
-- Notify the police immediately after seeing a motorist who is driving suspiciously.
-- Follow the rules of the road. Do not contest the "right of way" or try to race another car during a merge. Be respectful of other motorists.
-- Do not follow too closely. Always use a "three-second following distance" or a "three-second plus following distance."
-- While driving, be cautious, aware, and responsible.
No matter how careful or a skilled driver you are, high speeds, impaired or careless drivers, and not using occupant restraints correctly or not at all, threatens each person on the road.
We have all heard the term to drive defensively. This means that you take responsibility for yourself and your actions and in addition, you are always aware of the other driver's actions.
Below are some driving tips from the National Safety Council to help reduce risks on the road.
-- Do not start the engine without securing each passenger in the car, including children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of lives each year! Lock all doors.
-- Remember that driving too fast or too slow can increase the likelihood of collisions.
-- Do not kid yourself. If you plan to drink, designate a driver who will not drink. Alcohol is a factor in almost half of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.
-- Be alert! If you notice that a car is straddling the centerline, weaving, making wide turns, stopping abruptly, or responding slowly to traffic signals, the driver may be impaired.
-- Avoid an impaired driver by turning right at the nearest corner or exiting at the nearest exit. If it appears that an oncoming car is crossing into your lane, pull over to the roadside, sound the horn and flash your lights.
-- Notify the police immediately after seeing a motorist who is driving suspiciously.
-- Follow the rules of the road. Do not contest the "right of way" or try to race another car during a merge. Be respectful of other motorists.
-- Do not follow too closely. Always use a "three-second following distance" or a "three-second plus following distance."
-- While driving, be cautious, aware, and responsible.
Arizona Defensive Driving School
For all new drivers in Arizona who fall under the age of 18 must hold an Arizona driver instruction permit for at least five months before they go for the road test. After this test they receive the road test certificate of Class G graduated license, in case of cars. This test is preceded by Arizona driver instruction for Arizona State, which can be taken by the test if you are 15 years and seven months of age.
What do you need Driver Instruction in Arizona?
The Arizona driver instruction test is only meant for a specific Arizona driver instruction permit which is a written one whose questions and answers are taken from the appropriate manuals. After you have received your driver instruction permit, you are eligible to take professional classroom and behind-the-wheel courses to gain an understanding of the rules of the road. Large number of people prefer to take up online driver instruction courses which are easier to pursue and also effective and beneficial to you.
Before counting on an online driving course you must value the authorization and affiliation of the driving schools. Always choose those driving schools which are recognized by the Arizona court and DUI/DMV or equally competent departments or organizations. Your ability to drive, road and traffic safety depends a lot on the kind of Arizona driver instruction you receive from the driving schools.
Online Arizona driver instruction is one of the best courses that you may need in order to become safer driver on the roads. The Arizona defensive driving courses are designed and developed by an order of the court to serve the people who suffer traffic allegations or traffic ticket. Many a times when these people are charged fine by the traffic police, the police officer suggests the person to take up these government/ court approved driver instruction courses.
These online driver instruction courses are designed after thorough research by a team of experts to make the course easier to understand. Arizona driver instruction online course comes with advance graphics which simulate the real life driving situations where people commit mistakes. The instructions provided are very simple straightforward and standard. They are designed to be easier for any learner to learn quickly. The Arizona driver instruction course has one of the most reputed course content for driver instruction and education plus, it has audio, video and animations that only facilitates faster learning. Arizona driver instruction course is available online and you can pursue it from just anywhere!
What do you need Driver Instruction in Arizona?
The Arizona driver instruction test is only meant for a specific Arizona driver instruction permit which is a written one whose questions and answers are taken from the appropriate manuals. After you have received your driver instruction permit, you are eligible to take professional classroom and behind-the-wheel courses to gain an understanding of the rules of the road. Large number of people prefer to take up online driver instruction courses which are easier to pursue and also effective and beneficial to you.
Before counting on an online driving course you must value the authorization and affiliation of the driving schools. Always choose those driving schools which are recognized by the Arizona court and DUI/DMV or equally competent departments or organizations. Your ability to drive, road and traffic safety depends a lot on the kind of Arizona driver instruction you receive from the driving schools.
Online Arizona driver instruction is one of the best courses that you may need in order to become safer driver on the roads. The Arizona defensive driving courses are designed and developed by an order of the court to serve the people who suffer traffic allegations or traffic ticket. Many a times when these people are charged fine by the traffic police, the police officer suggests the person to take up these government/ court approved driver instruction courses.
These online driver instruction courses are designed after thorough research by a team of experts to make the course easier to understand. Arizona driver instruction online course comes with advance graphics which simulate the real life driving situations where people commit mistakes. The instructions provided are very simple straightforward and standard. They are designed to be easier for any learner to learn quickly. The Arizona driver instruction course has one of the most reputed course content for driver instruction and education plus, it has audio, video and animations that only facilitates faster learning. Arizona driver instruction course is available online and you can pursue it from just anywhere!
acquiring a good defensive driving technique
A key to acquiring a good defensive driving technique is to never, ever rely on what the other driver will do. Recall for a moment the driving mistakes you've been guilty of over the years. Look ahead and imagine the ones you will probably make in the future. Guess what? All the other drivers are just the same! Don't trust anyone but yourself!
1. Be super wary of other drivers. Keep an eagle on them and leave yourself plenty of room to move. Try to anticipate and prepare for mistakes other drivers might make. When you are not paying attention to other drivers, you are effectively giving them control of your vehicle. You are at their mercy. This is without a doubt one of the most important defensive driving techniques you can embrace.
2. Is that driver worthy of your trust? Maybe some of those other drivers are returning from a boozy night out. Perhaps they just lost a job or suffered the tragic loss of a loved one. The other driver might be a 9-year-old out for a joy ride. Regard every other driver as an unpredictable menace out to get you. Most collisions occur when the "other guy" does something unexpected.
3. Anticipate other driver errors. Be wary when approaching red lights. A red light by itself never stopped anyone. Watch out for drivers preparing to pull out from beside the road. Other potential dangers include failure to signal a lane change, or tailgating someone when they are dawdling along looking to make a turn-a turn they suddenly WILL make at the last second. Be alert to all possibilities and be ready to deal with them.
Driving is the most dangerous thing that most of us ever do, and because of this, driving deserves your full attention. By mastering the defensive driving techniques of "paying attention" and "trusting nobody but yourself" and making them an unconscious habit, drivers can achieve 99% protection. Paying attention and being wary of other drivers makes it possible for you to be instantly aware of the hazards lurking on the road, almost before they are there.
1. Be super wary of other drivers. Keep an eagle on them and leave yourself plenty of room to move. Try to anticipate and prepare for mistakes other drivers might make. When you are not paying attention to other drivers, you are effectively giving them control of your vehicle. You are at their mercy. This is without a doubt one of the most important defensive driving techniques you can embrace.
2. Is that driver worthy of your trust? Maybe some of those other drivers are returning from a boozy night out. Perhaps they just lost a job or suffered the tragic loss of a loved one. The other driver might be a 9-year-old out for a joy ride. Regard every other driver as an unpredictable menace out to get you. Most collisions occur when the "other guy" does something unexpected.
3. Anticipate other driver errors. Be wary when approaching red lights. A red light by itself never stopped anyone. Watch out for drivers preparing to pull out from beside the road. Other potential dangers include failure to signal a lane change, or tailgating someone when they are dawdling along looking to make a turn-a turn they suddenly WILL make at the last second. Be alert to all possibilities and be ready to deal with them.
Driving is the most dangerous thing that most of us ever do, and because of this, driving deserves your full attention. By mastering the defensive driving techniques of "paying attention" and "trusting nobody but yourself" and making them an unconscious habit, drivers can achieve 99% protection. Paying attention and being wary of other drivers makes it possible for you to be instantly aware of the hazards lurking on the road, almost before they are there.
Defensive Driving Course Segments:
The defensive driving courses are designed to comprise separate training sessions. Each of the segments are theory-based as well as practical based. In the latter, the instructor enables audio-visual learning via interactive practice. The final segment of the defensive driving course is application based. The course can be completed within ten hours or can last through 2 whole days. The aim is to ensure that every candidate has learned about the factors leading to road casualties and ways and means to avoid the same. The various segments or sessions of the defensive driving courses deal individually with the importance of proper focus and attention while driving, the art of curbing or suppressing emotions while driving and identifying different driving conditions. There are interspersed segments that address the effect of drug addiction and alcohol addiction on roadworthiness and that of peer pressure.
The defensive driving course is designed to enable potential drivers to learn skills that make a difference to life. The Traffic School guidelines are implemented according to the ruling by statewide courts. The course works towards achieving enhanced highway safety and impartial enforcement of motor vehicle laws. The instructors of the driving schools are dedicated to churning out better informed and more knowledgeable drivers for safer roads. The resultant mastery of road rules and the application of the basic mechanics of good driving helps prevent road rage. The approved courses positively execute all state requirements.
The defensive driving course is designed to enable potential drivers to learn skills that make a difference to life. The Traffic School guidelines are implemented according to the ruling by statewide courts. The course works towards achieving enhanced highway safety and impartial enforcement of motor vehicle laws. The instructors of the driving schools are dedicated to churning out better informed and more knowledgeable drivers for safer roads. The resultant mastery of road rules and the application of the basic mechanics of good driving helps prevent road rage. The approved courses positively execute all state requirements.
Defensive Driving Techniques That Could Save Your Life
You reckon you are a safe driver, right? No need to enrol in defensive driving classes? It is true that a clear driving record and no involvement in dangerous traffic accidents probably means you are a fairly good driver.
However, serious accidents are becoming more and more common, and are often not the fault of those innocent casualties who are badly injured. Learning basic defensive driving techniques can greatly improve your chances of avoiding death and injury and remaining safe on the road.
Options for learning defensive driving techniques abound. Plenty of driving schools offer defensive driver education, as well as advanced driving programs and online traffic safety courses.
Exhaustive research and analysis into driving accidents and their causes has resulted in the production of the quality learning materials used to teach defensive driving techniques. Research now shows that drivers who adopt defensive driving as a matter of course have a statistically better chance of avoiding serious injury whilst driving on the roads.
Seven Good Defensive Driving Techniques
1. Always use a seat belt. Statistics show that wearing a seat belt greatly improves the chances of surviving a serious road accident. Many countries regard driving without a seat belt as a traffic violation, making it illegal to drive without a seat belt.
2. Anticipate danger by expanding the line of sight and watching the road ahead. Drivers who adopt defensive driving techniques like this, and leave a good gap between vehicles, are able to brake early and take evasive action in time to avoid danger. It also allows plenty of time to notice others entering a freeway or driving through an intersection. Even on a green light, it is still wise to look for other drivers who may be illegally trying beat a red light.
3. Avoid internal distractions. Making sure your driving mirrors are set before you take off is vital for a clear view in both directions. This also avoids the distraction of adjusting them whilst driving. Avoid talking on the telephone, change the CD player or flick between radio stations. In fact, avoid any distracting activity at all which might take your attention away from the main activity, which is driving safely.
4. Watch yourself in heavy traffic. Experts on defensive driving techniques suggest the greatest risk is when drivers find themselves among a large pack of cars. One careless move by any car in the pack has the potential to affect everyone else. The way to avoid an accident is to safely steer away from the pack of cars towards the front.
5. Steer clear of heavy vehicles. Watch carefully for heavy vehicles in your rear view mirror, and avoid driving in front of or beside them. Particularly avoid trucks with heavy, insecure loads, especially when cornering or rounding bends.
6. Drive with two hands on the wheel. Defensive drivers always grip the steering wheel securely with their hands at the nine and three o'clock positions. This position ensures maximum control of your vehicle at all times.
7. Do not travel in the blind spot of another vehicle. Blind spots can be real trap. A good rule of thumb when overtaking or following other traffic is to remember if you cannot see their mirrors, they cannot see you!
Adopting good defensive driving techniques is like riding a horse. Once learnt and integrated into your daily driving habits, they will stand you in good, safe stead for the rest of your life.
So why should you acquire good defensive driving techniques? That is easy. To avoid serious trauma and injury to you and your loved ones, usually caused by other irresponsible drivers.
However, serious accidents are becoming more and more common, and are often not the fault of those innocent casualties who are badly injured. Learning basic defensive driving techniques can greatly improve your chances of avoiding death and injury and remaining safe on the road.
Options for learning defensive driving techniques abound. Plenty of driving schools offer defensive driver education, as well as advanced driving programs and online traffic safety courses.
Exhaustive research and analysis into driving accidents and their causes has resulted in the production of the quality learning materials used to teach defensive driving techniques. Research now shows that drivers who adopt defensive driving as a matter of course have a statistically better chance of avoiding serious injury whilst driving on the roads.
Seven Good Defensive Driving Techniques
1. Always use a seat belt. Statistics show that wearing a seat belt greatly improves the chances of surviving a serious road accident. Many countries regard driving without a seat belt as a traffic violation, making it illegal to drive without a seat belt.
2. Anticipate danger by expanding the line of sight and watching the road ahead. Drivers who adopt defensive driving techniques like this, and leave a good gap between vehicles, are able to brake early and take evasive action in time to avoid danger. It also allows plenty of time to notice others entering a freeway or driving through an intersection. Even on a green light, it is still wise to look for other drivers who may be illegally trying beat a red light.
3. Avoid internal distractions. Making sure your driving mirrors are set before you take off is vital for a clear view in both directions. This also avoids the distraction of adjusting them whilst driving. Avoid talking on the telephone, change the CD player or flick between radio stations. In fact, avoid any distracting activity at all which might take your attention away from the main activity, which is driving safely.
4. Watch yourself in heavy traffic. Experts on defensive driving techniques suggest the greatest risk is when drivers find themselves among a large pack of cars. One careless move by any car in the pack has the potential to affect everyone else. The way to avoid an accident is to safely steer away from the pack of cars towards the front.
5. Steer clear of heavy vehicles. Watch carefully for heavy vehicles in your rear view mirror, and avoid driving in front of or beside them. Particularly avoid trucks with heavy, insecure loads, especially when cornering or rounding bends.
6. Drive with two hands on the wheel. Defensive drivers always grip the steering wheel securely with their hands at the nine and three o'clock positions. This position ensures maximum control of your vehicle at all times.
7. Do not travel in the blind spot of another vehicle. Blind spots can be real trap. A good rule of thumb when overtaking or following other traffic is to remember if you cannot see their mirrors, they cannot see you!
Adopting good defensive driving techniques is like riding a horse. Once learnt and integrated into your daily driving habits, they will stand you in good, safe stead for the rest of your life.
So why should you acquire good defensive driving techniques? That is easy. To avoid serious trauma and injury to you and your loved ones, usually caused by other irresponsible drivers.
AARP Defensive Driving Program
The number of car accidents which are now happening frequently amongst the senior population is quite staggering. A report published recently in USA Today discovered that accidents involving senior drivers are being claimed at a rate more than 70% higher than back in1999. Driving is now getting more and more difficult for those drivers who are over 55. Cars are more powerful, traffic is heavier and road rules are forever changing. The AARP has a driver safety program which is helping better educate senior drivers in defensive driving techniques and road safety.
For those who are wondering just who the AARP is, they are a powerful association which pushes the rights and security of those American citizens who are over the age of 55. The AARP acknowledges that preventing all senior citizens from driving is not practical, and is in fact discriminatory. Bearing this in mind, the AARP developed their defensive driving program with the aim of updating and renewing the driving capabilities of seniors still behind the wheel. Letting go of driving privileges can be embarrassing and depressing at any age. Many older drivers find it increases the stresses that accompany growing older and being able to do less as the years roll by. A prime example of this is where a senior driver can easily pass the compulsory eye examination, but critical reaction times and reflexes are now much slower.
The AARP Driver Safety Class - What Is It?
A better name for the AARP Driver Safety Class would be the AARP Defensive Driving class. Not only does it update skills on driver safety, but it teaches skills to help seniors avoid getting into accidents in the first place. Motor vehicle insurance companies now accept AARP defensive driving classes as a requisite for car insurance rebates. By undertaking an AARP defensive driving class, senior drivers can not only save money, but can also indicate to insurance companies that they are serious about driving safely and avoiding accidents.
AARP Defensive Driving Safety Classes - Where Are They?
AARP defensive driving course are situated in many localities - finding one nearby is not that hard. The AARP website is easily accessible online, and seniors can search to see what classes would suit them. For those who do not have the internet, the AARP can be contacted by telephone on free-call 1-888-AARP-NOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP volunteers will respond with information about suitable AARP defensive driving courses within 3 to 5 working days.
At a cost of round $10, and AARP defensive driving course is reasonably priced. A course usually goes for two days and has approximately four hours daily class contact time. Course objectives of and AARP defensive driving course are:
1. Updating driving skills and knowledge of road rules.
2. Awareness of normal physical changes related to ageing, and what driving adjustments to make.
3. Learning the warning signs which precede finishing with driving altogether.
4. Reducing or eliminating traffic violations, accidents, and potential injury.
5. Drive more safely on the road.
6. Obtain insurance discounts. Car insurance companies usually provide discounts to AARP graduates.
In current times when those from the "baby boomer" generation are becoming seniors, there are more seniors driving than ever before. As the first and largest driving course in the United States for over 55's, the AARP Driver Safety Program is helping millions in the senior driving category remain safe whilst driving on the roads. For the last 25 years, the AARP driver safety program has been offered in classroom format. Now seniors can access the same course online. For those"seniors" still driving wanting to do so for many years to come, enrolling in your nearest AARP defensive driving course is a no-brainer!
For those who are wondering just who the AARP is, they are a powerful association which pushes the rights and security of those American citizens who are over the age of 55. The AARP acknowledges that preventing all senior citizens from driving is not practical, and is in fact discriminatory. Bearing this in mind, the AARP developed their defensive driving program with the aim of updating and renewing the driving capabilities of seniors still behind the wheel. Letting go of driving privileges can be embarrassing and depressing at any age. Many older drivers find it increases the stresses that accompany growing older and being able to do less as the years roll by. A prime example of this is where a senior driver can easily pass the compulsory eye examination, but critical reaction times and reflexes are now much slower.
The AARP Driver Safety Class - What Is It?
A better name for the AARP Driver Safety Class would be the AARP Defensive Driving class. Not only does it update skills on driver safety, but it teaches skills to help seniors avoid getting into accidents in the first place. Motor vehicle insurance companies now accept AARP defensive driving classes as a requisite for car insurance rebates. By undertaking an AARP defensive driving class, senior drivers can not only save money, but can also indicate to insurance companies that they are serious about driving safely and avoiding accidents.
AARP Defensive Driving Safety Classes - Where Are They?
AARP defensive driving course are situated in many localities - finding one nearby is not that hard. The AARP website is easily accessible online, and seniors can search to see what classes would suit them. For those who do not have the internet, the AARP can be contacted by telephone on free-call 1-888-AARP-NOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP volunteers will respond with information about suitable AARP defensive driving courses within 3 to 5 working days.
At a cost of round $10, and AARP defensive driving course is reasonably priced. A course usually goes for two days and has approximately four hours daily class contact time. Course objectives of and AARP defensive driving course are:
1. Updating driving skills and knowledge of road rules.
2. Awareness of normal physical changes related to ageing, and what driving adjustments to make.
3. Learning the warning signs which precede finishing with driving altogether.
4. Reducing or eliminating traffic violations, accidents, and potential injury.
5. Drive more safely on the road.
6. Obtain insurance discounts. Car insurance companies usually provide discounts to AARP graduates.
In current times when those from the "baby boomer" generation are becoming seniors, there are more seniors driving than ever before. As the first and largest driving course in the United States for over 55's, the AARP Driver Safety Program is helping millions in the senior driving category remain safe whilst driving on the roads. For the last 25 years, the AARP driver safety program has been offered in classroom format. Now seniors can access the same course online. For those"seniors" still driving wanting to do so for many years to come, enrolling in your nearest AARP defensive driving course is a no-brainer!
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