18 Driving Rules That Keep You Safe (But Most People Overlook)

By Jake Harris

Admit it: we all slip into bad habits over time. It even happens when we’re behind the wheel, but it shouldn’t because it could prove dangerous to you and other road users. While we all know the basics, like buckling up and stopping at red lights, some lesser-known rules and guidelines are just as important for keeping you and others safe on the road. Following these rules can make a big difference in your safety.

Use Your Turn Signals Every Time

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Many drivers skip this step when they think no one’s around, but it’s a bad habit. Turn signals aren’t just for lane changes on the highway – they’re crucial anytime you change direction, even in parking lots or turning into driveways. Other road users depend on these signals to anticipate your next move. Using turn signals consistently reduces confusion and prevents accidents.

Keep a Safe Following Distance

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Don’t ignore the recommended two to three seconds of space between cars because tailgating puts everyone at risk. This gap gives you time to react if the car in front suddenly brakes or swerves. Maintaining a safe following distance, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic, helps avoid collisions and keeps traffic flowing smoothly.

Check Blind Spots, Not Just Mirrors

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You can’t afford to rely solely on mirrors for lane changes. Mirrors have blind spots, and failing to physically turn your head to check can lead to dangerous merges. Even advanced cars with blind-spot monitoring systems can’t replace a quick over-the-shoulder glance. Make this a habit, and you won’t accidentally move into a space occupied by another vehicle.

Adjust Your Speed for Conditions

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Slow down when the weather takes a turn – it’s critical for safety. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, not for rain, snow, or fog. Wet roads reduce traction, and poor visibility shortens your reaction time. Driving at the posted speed limit during bad weather can be just as dangerous as speeding on a sunny day.

Yield Properly at Roundabouts

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Drivers who fail to yield at roundabouts or enter them too quickly cause unnecessary accidents. Roundabouts confuse many drivers, but the rule is simple: yield to vehicles already inside the circle. Slow down as you approach, signal if you’re exiting, and be patient. Properly navigating roundabouts keeps traffic moving and reduces the risk of collisions at these intersections.

Dim Your High Beams

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Bright headlights can be hazardous when other drivers are nearby. Failing to dim your high beams can temporarily blind oncoming drivers or those in front of you. Switch back to low beams as soon as you see another car. A little courtesy goes a long way toward keeping the road safe for everyone.

Stay in the Right Lane Unless Passing

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Drivers who linger in the left lane on highways can cause frustration, encourage tailgating, and even lead to dangerous passing maneuvers by other drivers. Remember, the left lane is for passing – not cruising. Stick to the right lane if you’re not actively passing another vehicle, and move back over after completing your pass.

Always Look Both Ways at Intersections

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Intersections are hotspots for accidents caused by red-light runners or distracted drivers.  Never assume a green light means it’s safe to proceed without looking. Taking a second to look both ways before entering an intersection can help you spot hazards and avoid a collision, even if you have the right of way.

Don’t Drive in Another Car’s Blind Spot

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Large trucks have blind spots where the driver can’t see other road users. If the driver can’t see you, they might change lanes or turn without realizing you’re there. That means staying in another vehicle’s blind spot is a recipe for disaster. Always pass through blind spots quickly or adjust your position to remain visible in their mirrors.

Use Cruise Control Wisely

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If you use cruise control during rain or snow, you increase the risk of losing traction because the system doesn’t adapt to slippery conditions. Cruise control is great for long drives but not heavy traffic or bad weather. So save cruise control for dry, open roads where it helps maintain a steady speed and reduces driver fatigue.

Don’t Use Your Horn Aggressively

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Some drivers use the horn excessively or in anger. This can escalate situations and distract other drivers. The horn is a safety tool, not a weapon for venting frustration. Save it for alerting others to immediate dangers, like preventing a collision or signaling your presence. A well-timed honk can be life-saving, but misuse can cause unnecessary stress on the road.

Stay Out of the Crosswalk

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Ensure your car stays behind the crosswalk when stopping at red lights or stop signs. Blocking this space forces pedestrians to navigate dangerously around your vehicle. It also reduces visibility for other drivers turning or entering the intersection. Make sure to respect crosswalk boundaries, as it keeps everyone safe and avoids potential tickets or fines.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

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Many drivers overlook regular tire pressure checks, relying on warning lights instead. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and blowouts. Checking pressure monthly or before long trips ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of tire-related accidents.

Merge Early in Construction Zones

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You might think that merging in a construction zone at the last second is a time-saver, but it’s dangerous and frustrates other drivers. Early merging keeps traffic moving more smoothly and reduces the likelihood of rear-end collisions. Make sure to move into the correct lane well in advance, as this keeps the flow of traffic safe and orderly.

Avoid Distractions, Even at Stoplights

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Do you glance at your phones or apply makeup while stopped at a red light? Many of us do, but we shouldn’t. Distractions at any point can make you miss changes in traffic or react too slowly when the light turns green. It’s very important to stay alert at all times, even when stopped. There is no doubt that this helps prevent accidents and keep traffic flowing efficiently.

Don’t Forget About Pedestrians

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To ignore pedestrians or rush through crosswalks puts lives at risk. Pedestrians always have the right of way at marked crosswalks, but many drivers fail to yield properly. Slowing down in busy areas and watching for foot traffic ensures everyone stays safe.

Signal Before Slowing Down

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Whether turning or stopping for unexpected reasons, always use your turn signal to indicate your intentions, because this helps others react appropriately. Abruptly slowing down without signaling confuses drivers behind you and can cause rear-end collisions. This simple habit makes the road safer and minimizes misunderstandings between drivers.

Respect Emergency Vehicles

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Pull over to the side of the road immediately when you see flashing lights or hear sirens. Drivers who hesitate or fail to make room delay emergency responders and put lives at risk. Respecting the right of way for emergency vehicles is not just courteous –it’s required by law.

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