If you haven’t made your New Year’s resolutions for 2021 yet – or even if you have – add these safe driving habits to the list. When you have goals for self-improvement as well as goals to help others, making good habits on the road a priority is an honorable resolution anytime of year.

1. Wear your seatbelt

It’s the law. Just wear your seatbelt.

2. Never drink and drive

This should go without saying, but so many people get in drunk driving car accidents every day because they think they have a drink or two and then get behind the wheel. Never drink and drive. If you drink, wait until you’ve sobered up completely before you operate a vehicle, or call an Uber to take you home.

3. Put the phone down

Texting while driving or using your cell phone in any way is a danger. Distracted driving has become as much of an epidemic as drunk driving. Taking your eyes off the road to use your phone for any reason is the fast track to a car crash.

4. Pull over if you’re drowsy

Drowsy driving actually mimics drunk driving and distracted driving. If you’re too tired to stay awake behind the wheel, then you shouldn’t be driving. You put yourself in danger and are a threat to all other people on the road.

5. Watch your temper

Aggressive driving doesn’t do anyone any favors. You have the best chance of arriving at your destination in one piece by following the traffic laws, operating your vehicle safely, and keeping your temper in check.

6. Maintain your vehicle

In Michigan, the weather can change on a dime and it can be quite severe. Always make sure your vehicle is up to date on maintenance and recalls so it will operate properly in any kind of precipitation or road conditions.

7. Drive defensively

Be aware of what others are doing around you and always expect the unexpected. When you keep distractions to a minimum, you can focus on the job at hand – driving your car and doing so safely. Defensive driving isn’t angry or aggressive driving, it’s cautious and conscientious driving. Make that your goal.

8. Do not tailgate

It may make you feel better to tailgate the car in front of you. It may make you feel like you can get them to move faster and get out of your way. All you’re doing with this behavior is setting yourself up for a car accident should that annoying driver stop short.

9. Follow the speed limit

Seems like an easy enough directive – follow the posted speed limit. But far too often, drivers think they know the road well enough to exceed the posted speed limit or make their own rules about how fast they’re driving. Speed limits are in place for a reason, whether that’s to ensure safety in a residential area, a heavily trafficked road, or dangerous stretch of highway.

10. Share the road

Yes, bicyclists have just as much right to be on the road beside you, as do motorcyclists. If you’re in a motor vehicle and you’re frustrated with the bikes around you, resolve to improve your tolerance of them. Respecting all people on the road means safer driving and safer roads.

If you are involved in a car crash, contact Femminineo Attorneys to discuss your case.