Most of us drive on a daily basis on an automatic pilot mode. Yet even the most experienced drivers can commit quite subtle mistakes that end up going unnoticed but are prone to more serious consequences. These can undermine your safety and cause unnecessary accidents and even stress for you while you ride on the road. In this blog, we will go into some common hidden driving errors and will provide few simple ways to avoid them, ensuring a safer journey for all of you.

1. Failing to maintain a safe distance

Most drivers never realize how much closer they are to the car in front of them. Tailgating is illegal in most areas, as well as dangerous. Following too closely reduces your time for reaction and maximizes the chance of being in a rear collision, especially when the front driver suddenly brakes. The basic rule to help keep you safe is called the "three-second rule." Try to keep at least three seconds distance with the vehicle ahead. In adverse weather conditions, extend this even further for added safety.

2. Improper Yielding

Most people forget to yield the right of way at busy intersections or even on highways when merging. Failure to yield properly, however, could result in dangerous collisions. Whether it is waiting at a red light to turn onto a side street or merging onto a highway, always check for other vehicles and pedestrians. It is important to give right-of-way when warranted, even if that means having to slow or stop, to avoid a potential accident from becoming a bigger incident.

3. Avoid Eyeing your Mirrors

Although we all know that we should check before moving into another lane, many drivers do not adjust their mirrors properly or do not check them frequently enough. Blind spots are very dangerous, which can be avoided if mirrors are used properly; the checked ones with such frequency are not even when you are about to change lanes or turn. In addition, the mirrors should be adjusted properly for maximum visibility of the road. And before changing, check with your shoulder to ensure blind spots are free of vehicles.

4. Traffic signs and road markings are ignored.

Sometimes, it becomes a habit for drivers to just glide through intersections without complying with all the traffic signs and markings. For example: rolling stop or not yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks can make accidents avoidable. Traffic signs and markings are put up for a reason- they are meant to regulate traffic flow and prevent crashes. Be sure to be obeying traffic signals and signs followed by a complete stop at stop signs and yielding to pedestrians.

Stop using brakes over-much and constantly break in some traffic situation especially when it is busy. The brake will exhaust not just wearing your brake pads faster but also open up your chances of being hit by someone crashing to your bumper. Anticipating the traffic ahead would help to avoid wasteful braking. The car in front appears to slow down; there is no point braking from a full throttle to zero, ease off the gas and let it coast to a lower speed; it saves you brake pads and gives you better vehicle control during trying times.

6. Driving Too Fast for Conditions

This superficial danger is the commonest of all on the roads: speeding. Behind that, just as dangerous is driving too fast for the conditions, which speed limits set at optimal conditions and do not provide for bad weather, bad visibility, or road hazards. When it rains, fog, or is icy, you should slow down, even if the sign indicates speed above which you can legally drive. Changing speed with changing road conditions can keep you from crashing into something suddenly created or suddenly removed by climatic changes.

7. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is probably one of the most significant hazards on the streets these days. Be it texting, checking your email, adjusting your GPS, or even eating while driving; taking your eyes off the road can easily become dangerous. This is because distracted driving makes one slow to react and makes poor decisions unsafe. Keep the phone out of reach during driving. Use only hands-free if it is so very necessary. If the attention-dividing act requires your full concentration, pull over in a safe place to address it before getting back on the road.

8. Improper Lane Changes

Improper lane changes are most commonly made when a driver does not signal and uses their blind spot to check the area with their windows. Some drivers even change lanes abruptly and screeching, causing danger to themselves and others. It sure makes sense that one should signal one's intentions well before a lane change, double-checking blind spots. Ensure that you only change lanes when it is safe to do so, though do not try to weave in and out of traffic too many times to get in front of other cars.

9. Driving with One Hand on the Wheel

Driving with one hand on the wheel, especially while performing other tasks, may feel comfortable, but it significantly reduces your control over the vehicle. In emergency situations, having both hands on the wheel can help you react faster and more effectively. Always aim to keep both hands on the wheel, especially when driving at high speeds or in challenging conditions. This simple habit can help improve your safety and vehicle control.

10. Underestimating the Importance of Rest

However, everyone seems to think it is ideal that they can drive long hours without stopping and take a rest. Driving while weary could be a match against an intoxicated driver. You find that with sleep deprivation, your reaction time and focus diminish, which makes driving rather unsafe. If you are tired or drowsy, stop driving and get some rest. https://www.dmvedu.org/