How to be the Safest Driver on the Road

We’ve all been on the road with a scary driver — they veer into other lanes, they text and drive, they eat and drive, they make just about every bad decision you can. Since we can’t change other people, we have to learn how to be defensive drivers. Driving defensively is, according to DriversEd.com, “a set of driving skills that allows you to defend yourself against possible collisions caused by bad drivers, drunk drivers, and poor weather.” That means paying attention to the road, avoiding distractions, understanding your vehicle and remain prepared for anything and everything.

Here's how to be the safest driver on the road:

Install a wireless backup camera

Being a safe driver means being able to see everything around you. And while a rearview mirror helps you see those tricky spots behind you, a wireless car backup camera can make driving an easier, safer and more comfortable experience.

Nonda's 170-degree wide angle lens is 30-degree wider than traditional 140-degree camera, so it takes the worry out of backing up. Plus, it's four times clearer than standard cameras, cheaper than most options, and lasts longer than its competitors. It pairs directly with your smartphone and is easily installed with no drilling or wiring, which means it fits all car models — even the old ones.

Keep your cell phone at a reasonable distance

Cell phones serve a lot of purposes in today's world — and it would be futile for us to recommend you put it away while you drive. That being said, safe drivers only use technology sparingly, and not as a distraction when they're on the road. Keep your phone on a mount that's about arm's reach away. Turning on voice commands can also help keep you from having to text or type in an address.

Monitor your vehicle's health

Few things are more dangerous than a malfunctioning vehicle. The best way to prevent your vehicle from simply breaking down is through a Smart Vehicle Health Monitor. Vehicle health sensors are a sleek and compact way to keep an eye on what's going on under the hood. Once installed, it will send you or your teen real-time alerts about engine error codes, tire pressure, gas mileage and more. With this simple device, you can make sure you’re on top of any problems that might arise in your car, allowing you to be a safer driver.

Don't be a drowsy driver

Don’t drive when you’re tired. Simple as that. There are so many options out there today to get where you need to go without endangering yourself or others on the road. Order an Uber, call a taxi, call a friend. There’s always a safer way to get home.

If, however, you find yourself yawning, blinking a lot or dozing off after you've started driving, find a safe place to pull over and find a hotel. Use caffeine or your favorite music to keep you alert until you can make it.

Check your tires

Under-inflation is the leading cause of tire failure, according to the National Motor Crash Causation Survey, and at least one-in-four cars are driving with at least one underinflated tire. It’s not something most of us think about before we hop on the freeway for a day trip, but tire pressure is a big deal. Be the safest driver on the road by using a Smart Tire Safety Monitor that works with your vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system, or TPMS. That way, you can keep tabs on your tire pressure and health without getting out of the car and getting your hands dirty. You’ll automatically be updated on your phone if something is wrong with your tire pressure. So stay safe and keep up with the small, yet important, details of your car.