Racing a train to a crossing is a dangerous game often depicted in movies but tragically attempted in real life. The illusion of a train’s speed can deceive drivers, leading to fatal collisions. Remember, a train’s size and momentum make it an unstoppable force; attempting to beat it is like playing chicken with disaster. Respect …
Defensive Driving Rule #35: Never Play Chicken With a Train Read More »
Protecting your night vision on the road is crucial for safe driving, especially with modern, brighter headlights. As we age, our ability to recover from bright lights diminishes, making us more susceptible to glare. If you struggle with glare recovery, slow down at night to avoid out-driving your headlights. Resist the urge to flash your …
Defensive Driving Rule #34: Deal with Light Glare Read More »
The most fatal collision isn’t always what you’d expect. While T-Bones and head-on collisions are serious, statistics reveal that single-vehicle off-road collisions claim more lives. These accidents often occur due to loss of control, whether from distractions, fatigue, impaired driving, or loss of traction. A common scenario involves a slow drift to the right, …
Defensive Driving Rule #33: Avoid the Single-Vehicle Collision Read More »
Encountering reckless passing maneuvers on the highway is unfortunately not uncommon, and it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Passing involves considerable distance and time, especially at highway speeds. Before attempting a pass, carefully assess the necessity and feasibility of the maneuver. Often, maintaining a safe following distance and matching speeds with the vehicle ahead …
A head-on collision is one of the most devastating accidents imaginable, but preparation can make a difference. Stay vigilant and anticipate potential hazards, especially in curves or on distracted-driver-prone roads. Maintain attention and look ahead to detect erratic behavior from oncoming vehicles. Use your headlights during daylight to increase visibility and signal your presence to …
Defensive Driving Rule #31: Avoid Head-On Collisions Read More »
The best way to avoid skids is to drive smoothly and adapt to road conditions. Professionals drive seamlessly, planning ahead and slowing down when necessary. Skids typically occur due to excessive speed or driver error, such as sharp turns or abrupt acceleration/braking. Maintain properly adjusted brakes to prevent imbalance. There are two common types of …
Defensive Driving Rule #30: Know How to Recover from A Skid Read More »
Hydroplaning occurs when water accumulates under your tires, causing a loss of traction. Factors like speed, water depth, and tire condition influence hydroplaning. Recognize warning signs such as sudden steering jerks or unresponsiveness. If hydroplaning, ease off the accelerator and avoid braking abruptly. Keep tires in good condition, reduce speed in rain, and follow in …
Defensive Driving Rule #29: Check for Hydroplaning Read More »
Avoid the pitfalls of “jackrabbit” driving by adopting a “tortoise” style approach. Stay in your lane, match your speed to the flow of traffic, and minimize lane changes to reduce collision risks. Prioritize safety, use the two-second rule, and remain alert to surrounding drivers’ behaviors. Lead by example by allowing smooth merges and practicing courteous …
Defensive Driving Rule #28: Maintain an Even, Measured Pace Read More »
Defensive Driving Rule #27: Get Rid of Tailgaters When it comes to driving, avoiding tailgating is crucial for safety. Approximately 40% of collisions in Arizona are attributed to following too closely, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Tailgating limits visibility and slows reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. If you find yourself being …
Defensive Driving Rule #27: Get Rid of Tailgaters Read More »
Beware of the Cameras that Issue Red Light and Speeding Tickets In Mesa Our Goal is to teach you HOW not to get any more traffic tickets. Another of the 16 Mesa camera locations. Power and Main Need a Defensive Driving class to get an Arizona Traffic Ticket Dismissed? Take a classroom or online class …
Mesa Photo Camera Locations (updated 2024) 16 of 16, Guadalupe and Carriage Read More »
