Safe Driving

The most important thing for a driver to do to avoid any accidents or tickets is to pay attention to the road and avoid distractions such as loud music, arguing, eating, putting on makeup, or using a cell phone. In fact, distracted driving is such a problem that it is now illegal in the state of Washington to text or talk on a handheld phone up to your ear. (Hands free devices are still permitted for talking but should be avoided also.) Drivers only have a small amount of time to react to any hazards on the road and should be focused only on driving.

Drivers also need to know the traffic laws and especially the speed limit wherever they are driving. Officers generally will not let drivers go if they claim they “didn’t know” that they were exceeding the limit. Drivers should also know the status of their license and make sure they do not have any type of outstanding warrant or a suspended license because of unpaid tickets.

Many drivers become frustrated at other drivers on the road whom they think are slow or “bad” drivers, which can lead to aggressive driving, reckless driving, or even road rage. In actuality, aggressive driving is dangerous and does not save the driver any time in the long run. Constantly passing other cars or cutting others off will never save more than a few seconds from the final destination. Good drivers know that the best way to arrive safely and on time is to follow the laws and be aware of other drivers.

Tailgating or following too closely is never a good idea. Drivers need to have at least two full seconds to stop if the car ahead of them brakes suddenly. It is also important to scan around the car to make sure there are escape routes to the left and right if something suddenly happened.

Most of all, drivers need to be alert. This means they are free of alcohol or drugs, are not extremely tired or stressed, and are paying attention to the road.