Most drivers do not know about these simple but effective techniques to avoid or at least reduce crashes.
High School Driver Education does not cover these skills and is inadequate & is usually taught by instructors who do this as a sideline.
Here are some useful hints from Philip G.
Labasi, Senior Instructor for Guardian Driving Academy in Murrells Inlet, SC.
Gas Pedal Sticks: Simply move the transmission lever to "N" (nuetral).
Brake gently, stop car & turn off ignition.
Following Distance: The easiest method for avoiding most collisions is to maintain at least a 3 second distance from the car ahead.
When that car passes any object, count off 3 seconds.
If you reach the same object after 3 seconds, you have enough distance for adequate visibility and time to react to any emergency situation.
Tailgating or following too closely removes your visibility & reaction time.
Changing Lanes: Most drivers know they must signal & check their mirrors before changing lanes.
However, these same drivers forget to glance out of the side window on the lane change side to check the blind spot.
Remember "SMOG" (Signal, Mirrors, Over the Shoulder, Go).
Turning corners: Always turn a corner from the right lane for right turns & the left side for left turns.
Turn into the closest lane going in your direction.
Never cross over lanes when turning.
Braking: When traffic slows or stops ahead of you, begin gently braking as far back as possible.
This gives the driver to your rear plenty of time to react.
Sudden braking or braking too late creates an unsafe situation to your rear and can increase wearing of the brake components.
Use these techniques.
They aren't very difficult but they will contribute to your safety.