4 Driving Mistakes You Probably Make and How to Fix Them

Riding the Brake

Unfortunately for many drivers, riding the brake becomes habit early. There is no reason for you to use both of your feet when you’re driving. In fact, when you ride the brake, you’re actually putting undue stress on your car. Holding down the brake and the gas together wears out your brakes more quickly, puts extra stress on the engine, and in a lot of cases can actually lead to an accident. You should always use just your right foot to speed up and slow down. Give your left foot a bit of a break the next time you get behind the wheel.

Sitting Awkwardly

Let’s be honest – sitting in the car isn’t the most comfortable place you could be. However, it’s important to make sure you’re sitting in the right position when you’re driving. Whether the seat is comfortable or not truly makes no difference. When you’re not seated properly, your reaction time is slowed, and you’re in a more dangerous position if there is an accident. Position yourself so that you are sitting upright, can clearly see out the windshield and over the steering wheel, and you don’t have to overextend your arms or legs while you’re driving.

Making Wide Turns

Have you ever been driving in the turn lane and realized that you may have crossed a few lines? Crossing lanes while you’re turning is a big no–no. If you’re turning from the inside lane, don’t cross to the outside lane halfway through the intersection. Unfortunately, with this being such a common mistake it’s also a problem that leads to a lot of collisions. Even if you make sure that there’s no one behind you, it’s never a good idea to change lanes while in the middle of an intersection. Honestly, it’s just asking for trouble.

Getting Distracted

The biggest, and most dangerous, mistake nearly every driver makes is getting distracted while on the road. It’s easy to do. Driving can get boring, especially if you’re on your daily commute or a long road trip. However, taking your eyes off the road or letting your mind wander for just a few seconds can lead to disastrous consequences. Make sure that you’re staying engaged while you’re driving and don’t take your eyes off the road. Keep your phone put away, try to eat before or after your drive, and pull over if you need to focus your attention elsewhere.

Driving is a fun experience for many, a stressful one for many more, and just a chore for many others. No matter how you view the experience, it’s something that needs to be done. You just need to make sure that you’re taking the time to make sure you’re driving smart and not breaking any of the written or unwritten rules of the road.

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