Unfortunately, many people overlook the importance of defensive driving. Of course, they begin to “sing a different tune” once they are involved in an accident and/or receive a moving violation.

The best time to change your driving habits is right now. Becoming a defensive driver means different things to different people. In short, this means that you will eliminate bad driving habits while doing whatever it takes to avoid bad drivers.

Here are five tips for becoming a defensive driver as a means of staying safe while on the road:

1. Don’t Follow Close Behind

How often do you find yourself riding the bumper of another driver? This is quite common. Not only can you receive a ticket for this action, but if the other driver stops short you may end up in his or her backseat. You must keep a safe following distance, allowing yourself plenty of time to stop.

2. Pullover if an Aggressive Driver is Bullying You

There is nothing worse than somebody following too closely behind. It can make you extremely nervous if another driver is speeding in hopes of getting you to move faster.

Rather than fall into their trap, it is best to move out of the way. On the highway, all you have to do is jump into the right lane. If you are on a one-lane road, do your best to move to the side so that the other driver can get through.

3. Pay Attention to What is Going on Around You

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is paying too much attention to what is going on in your car and not enough attention to those around you.

As you drive, you need to have a plan of action in mind at all times. What will you do if somebody in front of you suddenly stops? What will you do if you pull up to an intersection and another driver blows through a stop sign? You should always assume that the other driver is going to make a mistake. This will ensure that you always stay in the “defensive driver frame of mind.”

4. Avoid Distractions

With all the technology available in today’s day and age, many drivers find it difficult to stay on task while behind the wheel. You need to avoid all distractions including but not limited to: cell phones, playing with the radio, or disciplining children.

Remember, if you take your eyes off the road for a split second it could lead to an accident.

Tip: Just as you may be distracted while driving the same thing holds true for everybody else on the road.

5. Keep Your Cool

It can be difficult to stay calm when other drivers are being so aggressive. It can also be challenging to keep your cool when sitting in traffic. Don’t turn into one of those people who are always angry on the road. If you let your emotions get the best of you, it could lead to an accident or ticket soon enough.

With these five tips in mind, you will find it much easier to turn yourself into a defensive driver.