THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015
 Driving is safest when the road traffic is predictable. No one likes hitting their brakes or violently swerving because another driver surprised them. Sometimes the surprised driver is left with no options and the end result is a serious accident. By driving predictably, you make the road a safer place for yourself and others. Become a safer driver by following these tips.
Use Your Turn Signals
Part of being predictable is making your intent known to other drivers. Signal well in advance of lane changes. When you stop at an intersection, leave your turn signal on if you plan to turn. This allows the drivers around you to take your intentions into account when the traffic light changes. When you intend to turn into a side road, your turn signal warns the driver behind you that you will be slowing down to make your turn.
Avoid Rapid Changes
Make your lane changes gradual while using your turn signal. If you find that you're too close to your exit to turn safely, take the next exit rather than making a hard turn while slamming your brakes. Never swerve across multiple lanes to reach your turnoff. Driving predictably means paying attention so that you will have plenty of time to slow down and turn.
Make Your Turns From the Proper Lane
Make left turns from the leftmost lane and right turns from the rightmost lane at intersections. Turning from the wrong lane because you positioned yourself incorrectly is an unpredictable and dangerous maneuver. If you find yourself in the wrong lane, make your turn at the next intersection further down the road.
Check Your Blind Spots
Unexpected maneuvers often happen when a driver isn't aware of another car's presence when turning. This is either because they didn't look or they didn't check their blind spot.
Drive at a Steady Speed and Direction
By minimizing changes in speed and direction, you minimize the risk of surprising another driver. Your risk of getting into an accident is also reduced. Constant lane switching to get into the fastest lane exposes you to greater risk. It is also futile because research shows that lane switching doesn't get you to your destination faster.
Make the road a safer place for yourself and other motorists by driving predictably. This practice makes you a safer driver, which
means your good driving record will qualify you for lower insurance premiums.
Stay safe on the road. Call First Insurance Group at (800) 511-2892 for more information on Richmond auto insurance.
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