The Benefits That Safe Driving Can Offer
If you’re driving on public roads, then you have a moral and legal responsibility to do so safely. Safe driving isn’t just about staying on the right side of the law, however. Often, just a few simple habits and practices can make a crucial difference for you, your passengers, and everyone you share the road with. They might even help you to save money, at the same time.
Let’s take a closer look at safe driving and why it matters.
Lower Risk of Accidents
It should almost go without saying that safe driving can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. If you’re driving at a sensible speed, then you’ll have more time to react to events on the road ahead. The same applies if you’re focusing on the road rather than glancing down at the screen of your phone.
It’s worth thinking about stopping distances. Not just in terms of the braking distance (that’s the distance it takes the car to stop after you’ve slammed on the brakes), but the thinking distance (the distance your car will travel while your brain is processing the fact that you need to stop). An automatic braking system will help you to slash the latter, while quality tyres and brakes will make a difference to the former.
What really matters, however, is speed. If you’re driving at twenty miles per hour, it will take you three car lengths to stop. If you’re driving at forty miles per hour, it will take nine car lengths.
Financial Savings on Car Expenses
Another advantage of safe driving is that, in the long term, it tends to be much cheaper. It will reduce the amount of wear and tear on your vehicle, which will lower your maintenance costs. It will also reduce the likelihood of a collision, which will save you from, among other things, a hefty repair bill.
Slowing down also tends to make your vehicle more fuel efficient, which can be particularly important if you’re putting in a lot of miles over the course of a given week.
Rewarding Insurance Options
Safe driving practices tend to limit the risk you present to your insurer. If you’re able to demonstrate that you’re a safe driver, you’ll consequently be rewarded with cheaper premiums. The best way to do this is with the help of a ‘black box’ telematics device – or a mobile phone application that serves the same purpose. These things will keep track of your driving behaviour, including speed and braking, and charge you accordingly. Telematics insurance can be a benefeit of safe driving and help with a lower insurance even further.
Improved Mental Well-Being
On top of the direct safety benefits, changing your approach to driving can also make you feel better. You won’t be a source of danger to your fellow road users, and you won’t be putting yourself at unnecessary risk. This can help to bolster your confidence behind the wheel, and provide you with a sense of satisfaction. Driving can be a rewarding pastime, as well as a practical means of getting from one place to another – and safe driving can be more rewarding still.