If you want to become a safe, considerate driver on the road, learning driving manners can help. These courtesy rules have been around for centuries, and they’re expected by communities everywhere.
For instance, if you see a funeral cortege coming down the street, it’s polite to pull over and let them pass. It won’t take too much of your time and it makes everyone happier.
1. Be courteous
If you’re a driver, it’s important to drive with proper manners. This will not only make your experience on the road easier, but it also helps to save you money in the long run.
Be courteous to other drivers by letting them into your lane when they signal. This can be especially helpful for those who are new to driving or if they’re struggling to keep up with traffic.
You should also indicate when making a turn or manoeuvre. This will help other drivers to understand your intentions so they can plan their own moves accordingly.
Finally, give way to emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks when you see them on the road. This is a simple act that can save lives.
2. Don’t cut in
The best way to avoid a crash is to make sure you have ample room to maneuver before you attempt a pass. This may be easier said than done if you’re stuck in stop and go traffic or at an intersection that doesn’t allow drivers to switch lanes. If you have to swerve into the center lane, be sure to turn on your hazard lights so other drivers know that you’re not trying to run them off the road.
One of the better ways to avoid cutting is to remove your triggering items. These could be items such as scissors, razors, or any other item that might be used to self-harm. Taking the time to rid yourself of these objects might make you feel better about yourself and could prevent a future episode. It might also be worth the effort to call someone you trust to talk to you about it.
3. Don’t block lanes
If you’re behind someone who has turned left, don’t try to pass them on the right. This can be dangerous and is against the law in most states.
It’s also a bad idea to block lanes because it can cause drivers to lose sight of the road and have accidents.
This is especially important on one-lane roads and in intersections.
Most states follow the Uniform Vehicle Code, which requires that traffic move right if it’s slower than the speed limit. This ensures that the left lane doesn’t become clogged with cars trying to pass.
4. Don’t use your hazards
Hazard lights should only be used during emergency situations. While it may sound like a good idea, turning on your hazards while driving can actually increase your risk of an accident.
Hazards can also be confusing to other drivers. This is especially true when driving in bad weather.
Drivers who use their hazards while driving in traffic disable their turn signals, which makes it difficult for other drivers to know what they are doing next.
It is illegal to park in a restricted area such as double yellow lines or pedestrianised zones with your hazards on. If you are caught, you can be cited and your car could even be towed away.
5. Don’t pinch someone’s parking spot
A parking spot is a special kind of space that is reserved for vehicles. They may be arranged in an angled, perpendicular or parallel fashion.
They are typically marked by painted lines.
There are also parking signs to tell you where the best spots are located.
The best parking spot is usually one that’s a few feet wider than your vehicle.
This allows you to pull in and back out without encroaching on any other cars or pedestrians.
However, you should be aware that not everyone is as neat as you are when it comes to parking.
6. Don’t speed
Speeding is one of the most dangerous driving habits. Whether you’re on the highway or in a residential neighborhood, speeding can lead to serious accidents and legal consequences.
If you’re caught speeding, your insurance rates can skyrocket. It also causes a lot of wear and tear on your vehicle.
It can cause injuries to others on the road and damage the environment. It reduces your fuel efficiency and releases more carbon dioxide and noise pollution.
The best way to prevent speeding while driving is to stay within the posted speed limit. But this isn’t always possible, especially when road conditions change unexpectedly.
7. Don’t drive on the wrong side of the road
While there are exceptions to this rule, it’s a good idea to avoid driving on the wrong side of the road. Not only will it be confusing for you and your passengers, but it can also be dangerous.
In fact, a large portion of car accidents worldwide happen because people are unaware that they’re on the wrong side of the road.
Aside from the confusion, driving on the wrong side of the road can be a serious mistake that can result in a costly Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Philadelphia.
In the United States, driving on the wrong side of the road is a crime. Under VC 21651(b), it’s a misdemeanor that can lead to a negligent operator license suspension. It also can cost you more in insurance costs and fees. This is especially true if you get in an accident because of this error.
8. Don’t drive under the influence
Driving while intoxicated can be a deadly proposition for drivers and passengers alike. It can affect judgment, decision-making skills, ability to pay attention, physical control of your vehicle, and reaction time for hazards on the road.
Fortunately, there are many ways to keep yourself and others safe while enjoying a night on the town. One of the most effective is to not get behind the wheel when you’ve had too much to drink. You can also call a cab or use a car-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Lastly, don’t be afraid to pull over and report drivers you think are driving drunk. They may be mad at you, but the alternative is a lot worse. Remember: it’s always better to be safe than sorry. The best way to do that is to practice good driving habits and follow all the above-mentioned rules of the road.
9. Don’t overtake on the wrong side of the road
If you’re overtaking on the wrong side of the road, it can create a confusing circus for other drivers. This is especially true if you’re traveling in countries like Australia, Japan, Britain, New Zealand and South Africa.
Driving on the wrong side of the road can be dangerous and could result in a hefty fine or even ban from the roads altogether.
You should not overtake on the wrong side of the road when it is unsafe to do so – this may be in poor weather, or when there’s a hazard ahead such as pedestrian crossings or roadworks.
You should also give way to other vehicles in the lane you’re moving into, such as when there are parked cars on both sides of the road. This will eliminate any potential confusion for the driver behind you and make it clear what your intentions are.
10. Don’t cut in at the last minute
While it’s tempting to give a hoot about the latest gizmo from your smartphone manufacturer, it’s important to be mindful of other motorists on the road. The best way to avoid this is to keep your eyes on the road at all times.
There are plenty of other worthy contenders that deserve your attention. One of the best ways to do this is to get to know your fellow drivers. It’s a good idea to ask questions of people who have more than a few minutes to spare and who are more than willing to offer up tips on improving your driving game. A little friendly banter goes a long way and makes the ride more enjoyable for all. Besides, no one wants to be the victim of a road rage incident, right? It’s one of the many reasons why you should never underestimate a simple courtesy greeting.