Many people are safe drivers after they first get their driver’s license. Over time, drivers can develop bad driving habits that increase the risk of auto accidents.
Here are a few bad driving habits you should be aware of:
1. Dooring
“Dooring” happens when a person in a car opens their door in front of a cyclist. Many cyclists can’t predict when car doors will open and don’t have enough time to avoid such obstacles. As a result, many cyclists have suffered severe injuries since they lack the protection provided by cars.
People in cars can help reduce dooring accidents by practicing the “Dutch Reach.” The Dutch Reach is done by using the furthest hand to open the car door, which makes it easier to see oncoming cyclists.
2. Turn signal neglect
Turn signals are important to indicate to other vehicles when drivers intend to switch lanes or turn down streets. However, many people neglect to turn on their signals. When turn signal neglect happens, other vehicles don’t know the drivers’ intentions and auto accidents can occur.
3. Picking up calls
Many people get calls while driving. People can often use their cars to pick up calls. However, talking on the phone is a large cause of distracted driving accidents. It may help reduce auto accidents if drivers wait until their vehicles have fully stopped before calling people back.
4. Making quick texts
Much like picking up a call, texting and driving is a serious distraction that can lead to auto accidents. Many people don’t think a quick text will cause any damage, especially at a stop sign or red light, but every second counts when driving.
5. Eating and drinking
It’s easy to grab a meal and keep driving, even eating and drinking while the car is in motion. However, eating and drinking is another kind of distraction that can make driving unsafe.
If you’re in an auto accident, it may help to learn your legal rights and seek compensation for your injuries and losses.