August is National Traffic Awareness Month. This is a perfect time to remind others of ways we can all improve our driving, which could potentially help to lower insurance rates.
The exact way insurance companies set rates is very complex, but it is based on the principle of risk assessment. To aid in lowering the cost of your insurance, the first step is lowering your risk profile. Practicing traffic awareness and safe driving habits will reduce your risk and improve your driving record.
Here are some tips for improving traffic awareness and highway safety:
- Be aware of your surroundings. This includes paying attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and the road conditions.
- Obey the speed limit. Speeding is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents.
- Don’t drive distracted. This means no texting, talking on the phone, eating, or applying makeup while driving.
- Be predictable. Signal your turns and lane changes early and use your headlights at night and when it’s raining.
- Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. This will give you time to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
- Be patient. Don’t tailgate or try to pass other vehicles in dangerous situations.
- Take breaks. If you’re feeling tired, pull over and rest.
- Be aware of the weather conditions. If it’s raining, snowing, or foggy, drive slowly and carefully.
- Don’t drive if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Get a ride from a friend or ride-share service.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. This includes having properly inflated tires, working headlights and taillights, and a clean windshield.
- Be prepared for the unexpected. This means having a first-aid kit, flares, a flashlight, warm clothes, and water in your car in case of an emergency.
By following these tips, we can all help to make our roads safer for everyone, lowering risk and insurance costs in the process.
