Tips to Avoid Reckless Driving

“Reckless driving” is driving in a negligent manner that puts other peoples’ lives in danger. If you’re charged with reckless driving, you may face more than just a traffic ticket. You may also face hefty fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time. That’s why it’s best to avoid reckless driving in the first place. This article will give some good tips to avoid being charged with reckless driving. 

Leave Early

When you have to be somewhere important, like work or a doctor’s appointment, always try to leave a little early. If you have enough time to get to your destination, you will be less likely to speed and cut other drives off, which can cause a car wreck.

Keep Your Distance from Vehicles in Front of You

If the vehicle in front of you is going extra slow, it can be tempting to tailgate. However, you should avoid doing this at all costs. If the driver in front of you stops suddenly, you might not have enough time to hit your brakes and cause a rear-end accident. To avoid any issues, always stay at least a couple of car lengths behind the vehicle in front of you.

Follow Traffic Laws

No matter where you’re driving, you should always obey traffic laws. Follow the speed limit, avoid running red lights and stop signs, and always use your turn signals. The laws are in place to keep everyone on the road safe. If you follow these laws, you can reduce your risk of getting into an accident.

Don’t Give into Distractions

Distracted driving causes thousands of car accidents every year. When you’re behind the wheel, don’t send text messages, talk on the phone, eat, or do anything else that’s distracting. If you’re distracted, you’re more likely to speed, swerve into other lanes and run red lights. 

Avoid Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

The dangers of driving while drunk are well known, but that still doesn’t stop some people from getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. Even if you’ve just had a couple of alcoholic beverages and feel fine, you still might not be okay to drive. Driving while under the influence of alcohol can slow your reaction time and impede your judgment. If you’ve been drinking, ask a sober driver to take you home.

Stay Calm

If you become easily stressed while behind the wheel, you’re more likely to have road rage and cause an accident. Before you get in your car, take a few deep breaths to calm down. Try listening to soft music to remain calm while behind the wheel.

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, you should talk to an experienced traffic lawyer, like a traffic lawyer in Fairfax, VA, as soon as possible.

Thanks to May Law, LLP for their insight into how to avoid getting charged with reckless driving.