5 Bad Habits Drivers Have That You Need To Avoid

As you become more and more comfortable on the road, that is when you start picking up bad habits while behind the wheel. While some of them can be harmless, others can be very dangerous not only for yourself but for others on the road. It is best to address these issues early on, as it will be harder to break them after doing them a long time.

1. Neglecting Turn Signals

Turn signals are essential in letting other drivers know what your intentions are. When you are behind the wheel more and more, we sometimes start to forget to use the turn signal, especially in parking lots. Always use your turn signals and make sure you are keeping everyone informed, such as lane changes, pulling off the road or taking that open parking spot at the mall.

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major issue for all age groups, so focusing on this as a new driver is huge. When it comes to distracted driving, it is more than just texting and driving. This can be eating while driving or talking with the passengers in your vehicle and not focusing fully on the road in front of you. We all have to remember to stay focused while behind the wheel and keep your eyes on the road to help avoid car crashes.

3. Right of Way Errors

The right-of-way rules are something that many people forget, especially as you get further away from the moment you first got your driver's license. This is an area that every driver probably needs to refresh their memory on. Review the rules and proceed with caution at intersections.

4. Driving Drowsy

Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is very dangerous. They teach this at a young age. However, driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous. The Sleep Foundation stated that experts believe almost 6,000 annual fatalities take place a year due to drowsy driving, or 21% of fatal crashes. To compare, drinking and driving caused 9,949 fatalities in 2017, or about 30% of fatal crashes.

Drivers often try to push through when tired to get to their location, but that is not a good choice. You should get off the road and get some rest before getting back on the road again.

5. Driving Without Proper Paperwork

When you first get your driver's license, you are so happy and want to keep it on you at all times. As time goes by, people sometimes will drive their vehicle and realize they forgot their wallet or bag at home. It is very important to make sure you are always driving with proper paperwork on you, which not only includes your driver's license but also having up-to-date vehicle registration and proof of insurance in your vehicle.

By getting your driver's license, you agreed to be a safe driver and help keep the roads safe. These bad habits can prevent that from happening, so don't fall into the trap and start doing any of them. If you nip it in the bud early on, then you are more likely to not continue it later on. This commitment to being a safe driver will help Coastline Academy on our mission to eradicate car crashes!