When it comes to defensive driving, obeying traffic rules and using

common sense are essential. Traffic rules are in place to help protect you
and others while operating a vehicle on the road. Make sure you know the
rules and that you apply them to your own driving every day.

Defensive drivers obey traffic rules and use common sense:

 Speed limits
 Traffic signs and signals
 Follow the 2-second rule
 Signal your intentions
 Pass with care and only where allowed

We hope you always obey speed limits, traffic signs, and signals. We also
hope that you follow the 2 second rule. This means you should always stay
at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle in front—and allow more distance at
night or in bad weather. How can you tell if you're 2 seconds behind
another vehicle? Simple. Just note when the vehicle in front passes a traffic
sign or utility pole. Then slowly count 1, 2. If you pass the sign or pole
before you've counted 2, you're too close.

Another thing defensive driver's do is signal their intentions. If you're going

to turn or want to change lanes, switch on your turning signal in plenty of
time. If you plan to stop, tap your brakes a few times to slow down so that
the driver behind you can see your brake lights and then he will
understand that you're slowing down and may stop. If somebody's right
behind you, stick your arm out the window, extend it downward, and wave
your hand backward to show you intend to stop. Defensive drivers also
pass with care and only where allowed. They slow down when being
passed if the other vehicle needs room to pass safely.

Obeying Traffic Laws- Tips on Making

the Road a Safer Place
Obeying traffic laws is a simple yet often overlooked action to prevent accidents. Even the
slightest error such as not signaling before turning or following too closely can be lethal. By
following the rules of the road you are ensuring that:

1. Vehicles and Pedestrians around you are aware of what you are doing
2. You are aware of the obstacles of the road, whether they are visible or not
3. You are not liable for a traffic violation, saving you from fines and possible injury
When everyone is following the rules, the road is more organized, more efficient, and most
importantly safer. There are a few traffic violations that are popularly disregarded, but if ignored
even at the slightest can cause a major accident . The most frequent traffic violations include:
 Speeding
 Distracted Driving
 Driving While Under the Influence
 Not following street signs and stop lights

Though they may seem obvious, many people still do not follow these rules; here are a few tips
on how to stay safe on the road:

1. Follow the street signs

Whether it is a stop sign, a speed limit, or a construction sign it is always imperative that you
are observing and reacting to these instructions. They are placed there for the safety of the
vehicles on the road.

2. Use the two second rule

There is no need to tailgate the driver in front of you; this is a frequent cause of accidents
where the person that was driving too close is usually held liable. Make sure that you are at
least two seconds away from the vehicle in front of you. A good way to measure this is to count
how long it takes you to pass a still object they had passed, if it approaches you faster than it
takes you to count to two, it is safe to say you need to give the car some space.

3. Focus on driving while driving

People focusing on other activities while driving such as texting, talking to a passenger, or
changing the radio station can cause a mass amount of accidents on the road and lead
to injuries. It is pinnacle that while driving that the operator of the vehicle has their eyes on the
road.
4. Maintain your vehicle properly
It is very important to upkeep your vehicle to avoid failure, breakdowns, and accidents. It is
also key to make sure all signal lights including turning signals and brake signals are working
on your vehicle. These signal help communicate your intended actions so they can prepare for
them.