When driving along the highways and city streets, predictability is important. The best way to be a predictable driver is to follow traffic laws. For example, you should always use your blinker to indicate that you intend to turn or to change lanes. Driving with the flow of traffic is another way to remain predictable while behind the wheel. While you might practice safe driving habits and follow the traffic laws, many drivers do not.
Being as aware of bad driving habits as good ones can help you identify other vehicles that might pose a danger to you and your passengers. Once you can identify these drivers, you have a better chance of avoiding a collision.
Reckless driving
How many times have you been driving through Miami and seen an impatient driver weaving in and out traffic, following another vehicle too closely or driving 20 miles per hour over the speed limit. These are not just the behaviors of an impatient driver, but a reckless one as well.
However, reckless driving does not only consist of overly aggressive acts on the road. Slow driving in the left lane or merging too slowly entering a highway are also forms of reckless driving that can easily lead to a wreck.
Drafting semitrucks
While closely following a tractor-trailer can improve fuel efficiency, it is also extremely dangerous. Any distance closer than 150 feet to the rear of a semitruck puts a passenger vehicle in the danger zone. Even at 150 feet, a driver following a large truck will have less than two seconds to avoid a collision if the trucker slams on the brakes.
Not allowing for bad weather
Many drivers do not adjust their driving habits when the weather turns bad. While it might be perfectly reasonable and safe to drive over 60 miles per hour on the highway on a clear sunny day, it is typically not safe to travel at normal highway speeds in a rain storm. While many drivers typically slow down in bad weather conditions, there is usually at least one who does not and poses a threat to every other person on the road.
Drowsy driving
Drowsy driving is often just as dangerous as distracted driving and drunk driving. When a driver is too tired, he or she will have slower response times. In addition, an individual who is drowsy might also fall asleep at the wheel. This can end in a fatal accident if the drowsy driver falls asleep at the wheel.
If you see a driver displaying any of the above behaviors, it is best to take evasive action so that you can reduce your chances of being involved in an accident. Unfortunately, it is sometimes impossible to avoid the bad decisions of other drivers. If you have been the victim of a reckless driver, you might be able to file a claim for your injuries and other damages.
