Every time you get behind the wheel, you have a responsibility—not only for yourself but for passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Whether you’re a new driver or have years of experience, improving your driving habits can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and make the roads safer for everyone.
From staying alert to maintaining your vehicle, here are the top ways to improve your driving habits for better safety.
1. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
One of the leading causes of accidents is distracted driving. Looking at your phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or even talking to passengers can take your attention away from the road.
How to Stay Focused:
✔ Put your phone away – use hands-free technology only when necessary.
✔ Set up your GPS and music before driving so you don’t need to adjust them on the go.
✔ Avoid eating or drinking while driving to keep both hands on the wheel.
✔ Stay alert – if you feel drowsy, take a break before continuing.
Why It Matters:
Even a few seconds of distraction at high speeds can be the difference between avoiding an accident and causing one.
2. Follow Speed Limits and Road Signs
Speed limits exist for a reason—to ensure drivers have enough time to react and stop safely. Speeding reduces your ability to control your car, especially in emergencies or poor road conditions.
How to Maintain Safe Speeds:
✔ Be mindful of speed limit changes in school zones, residential areas, and highways.
✔ Slow down in bad weather—rain, fog, and ice can make roads slippery.
✔ Leave early to avoid rushing and driving too fast to reach your destination.
Why It Matters:
Speeding increases braking distance, reduces reaction time, and significantly raises the risk of accidents.
3. Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Tailgating (driving too closely behind another vehicle) is a common cause of rear-end collisions. Keeping a safe distance gives you more time to react if the car in front suddenly stops.
How to Keep a Safe Distance:
✔ Follow the three-second rule – pick a fixed object ahead, and ensure at least three seconds pass between the car in front passing it and you reaching it.
✔ Increase the gap to five seconds in wet or low-visibility conditions.
✔ Avoid aggressive driving—rushing won’t save much time but increases risk.
Why It Matters:
A safe distance gives you time to brake smoothly and avoid rear-end collisions.
4. Use Your Indicators and Check Blind Spots
Many accidents happen because drivers fail to signal their intentions. Whether changing lanes or making turns, clear communication with other road users is essential.
Best Practices for Signalling and Checking Blind Spots:
✔ Always use your indicators at least three seconds before turning or merging.
✔ Check your mirrors and over your shoulder before switching lanes.
✔ Be aware of motorcycles and smaller vehicles that may be in your blind spots.
Why It Matters:
Proper signalling and checking blind spots prevent unexpected lane changes and reduce the risk of side collisions.
5. Adjust Your Driving for Weather Conditions
Australian weather can be unpredictable—from heavy rain to extreme heat—and your driving should adapt to these conditions.
How to Drive Safely in Different Weather:
✔ In rain: Reduce speed, keep headlights on, and increase following distance.
✔ In fog: Use fog lights if available and avoid high beams.
✔ In extreme heat: Ensure tyres are properly inflated and check coolant levels.
Why It Matters:
Driving conditions change braking distances, visibility, and vehicle handling, so adapting to the weather is crucial for safety.
6. Obey Traffic Lights and Stop Signs
Running red lights and failing to stop at stop signs put you and others at significant risk. Even if a road looks clear, another driver may not see you, leading to a potentially deadly collision.
How to Ensure Compliance:
✔ Slow down as you approach intersections to prepare for a possible stop.
✔ Come to a full stop at stop signs, even if no one appears to be coming.
✔ Look both ways before proceeding, even when the light turns green.
Why It Matters:
Many serious accidents occur at intersections, so obeying signals keeps everyone safer.
7. Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
A well-maintained car is a safer car. Regular servicing helps prevent breakdowns and ensures essential safety systems like brakes, tyres, and lights work correctly.
Key Maintenance Checks:
✔ Tyres: Check tread depth and inflation monthly.
✔ Brakes: Listen for squeaking or grinding noises and have them inspected regularly.
✔ Lights: Test all headlights, brake lights, and indicators often.
✔ Wipers: Replace worn wiper blades to maintain clear visibility in rain.
Why It Matters:
A poorly maintained vehicle increases the risk of mechanical failures and accidents.
8. Avoid Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Aggressive driving—tailgating, speeding, weaving between lanes, and honking excessively—escalates dangerous situations on the road.
How to Stay Calm and Drive Responsibly:
✔ Give yourself extra travel time to avoid feeling rushed.
✔ Don’t engage with aggressive drivers—stay calm and focus on your own safety.
✔ Use your horn only when necessary, not out of frustration.
Why It Matters:
Aggressive driving leads to more crashes, higher stress, and dangerous road situations.
Final Thoughts: Safe Driving Starts with You
Improving your driving habits isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about creating a safer road environment for everyone. Whether you’re driving in busy city streets, rural highways, or unpredictable weather, following these tips will help you become a more responsible and confident driver.
At Cars4Us, we encourage all drivers to prioritise safety. If you’re looking to upgrade to a reliable used car with excellent safety features, explore our range of quality vehicles today at Cars4Us. Safe travels!