Mastering the art of driving defensively

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times— the need to drive defensively. Seasoned drivers tend to brush off the idea, thinking it refers to unnecessary tensing up and worry. But failure to drive defensively is akin to taking safety practices for granted and being reckless on the road, explains MN-based car expert Jeffrey Lupient.

Defensive driving means being focused and alert at all times, keeping an eye on what other drivers are doing and anticipating what they will do next. By always abiding by this mindset, we avoid most types of road accidents. This attitude extends to more specific examples, from never driving too closely behind another car to paying attention to all traffic signs.

As we embrace defensive driving, we learn that part of it is being cool-headed. One manifestation of being properly relaxed on the road is giving others the right of way. It can get confusing and cause impatience if other drivers are being tentative on, say, a four-way stop. When in doubt, always just give others the right of way and avoid compromising everyone’s safety by rushing to pull out.

Finally, never, ever use your cellphone while you’re driving. Texting and reading messages will clearly prevent you from giving the road your full attention and distract you from what other drivers are doing. Just keep the numbers in mind: according to the Department of Motor Vehicles, nine people each day are killed in the U.S. as a result of crashes involving a distracted driver. You don’t want to be part of the statistics, warns Minnesota-based car specialist Jeffrey Lupient.

MN-based Lupient Automotive Group President and CEO Jeffrey Lupient is a specialist in automotive retail sales. He is extensively educated in the field of car dealerships, a hands-on manager dedicated to providing optimum service and forging lasting customer relationships. For more automobile tips and advice, visit this page.