7 key habits your new driver needs
Defensive driving is a proactive way to prevent crashes and protect yourself and others on the road. In Michigan, where weather conditions and high traffic volumes can increase the risk of crashes, adopting defensive driving habits is more important than ever.
Michigan Crash Statistics
Michigan reported 282,640 traffic crashes in 2022, a slight increase compared to previous years, according to the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Reporting Unit. While fatal crashes decreased slightly, there were still 1,123 fatalities and over 75,000 injury-related crashes, showing the devastating effects of car crashes in the state.
Some of the most common contributing factors include distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and poor weather conditions. These statistics reveal the critical need for drivers to stay vigilant and adopt defensive driving strategies.
7 Key Habits for Your New Driver
1. Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in Michigan. In 2022 alone, distracted driving contributed to over 16,000 crashes. Cell phones, eating, and adjusting the radio are common distractions that take a driver's attention away from the road. Defensive drivers make it a habit to stay focused on the road at all times, keeping both hands on the wheel and their eyes on their surroundings. Using hands-free devices, pulling over to send texts, and limiting distractions can significantly lower the risk of crashes.
2. Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Following too closely behind another vehicle is a common cause of rear-end collisions. In Michigan, rear-end crashes made up about 30% of all collisions in 2022. Keeping a safe following distance is ESPECIALLY important for new drivers. Defensive drivers maintain a safe following distance, ideally a three- to four-second gap between vehicles. In poor weather conditions or heavy traffic, this distance should be increased to allow for longer stopping times.
3. Observe Speed Limits and Road Conditions
Speeding is one of the top contributors to serious crashes in Michigan. Students tell us all the time, “my dad says its ok to go 5-10 mph over the speed limit.”
But, speeding is the #1 factor in fatal crashes for young people. The faster you go, the less time you have to react which is a bad combo for someone just learning. Plus, on your Road Test even 1 mph over is going to get you a penalty point, so you might as well practice doing it right.
Defensive drivers not only adhere to posted speed limits but also adjust their speed according to road conditions. In poor weather, heavy traffic, or construction zones, lowering your speed can help you maintain better control of your vehicle and avoid crashes.
4. Watch for Aggressive Drivers
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding, weaving through traffic, and running red lights, were linked to thousands of crashes in Michigan. In fact, speeding alone contributed to over 20,000 crashes in 2022. Defensive drivers avoid engaging with aggressive drivers, choosing instead to maintain a safe distance and let them pass. If you encounter an aggressive driver, it's important not to react with road rage or sudden maneuvers, as this can escalate the situation.
5. Use Proper Signaling and Mirror Checking
Communication with other drivers is key to avoiding misunderstandings andcrashes. Defensive drivers use turn signals when changing lanes or turning, and they check their mirrors frequently to monitor surrounding traffic.
Blind spots are also a major risk factor, especially when changing lanes. Checking blind spots by looking over your shoulder before merging is a habit every defensive driver should adopt.
6. Be Prepared for the Unexpected
One of the principles of defensive driving is to expect the unexpected. This could mean anticipating that another driver may make a sudden stop, a pedestrian may enter the road, or wildlife may dart across your path. Michigan's rural roads, in particular, have a higher risk of wildlife-related crashes, with over 55,000 such incidents reported in 2022. By staying alert and anticipating potential hazards, defensive drivers can react more quickly to avoid crashes.
7. Adjust for Michigan’s Variable Weather
Michigan's harsh winters bring snow, ice, and reduced visibility, contributing to higher crash rates. According to state data, winter weather conditions, including snow, ice, and fog, were factors in over 40,000 crashes in 2022. Defensive driving in these conditions involves slowing down, increasing the following distance between vehicles, and using headlights to improve visibility. Drivers should also avoid abrupt movements, such as sudden braking or sharp turns, which can lead to skidding or loss of control.
Benefits of Defensive Driving
Adopting defensive driving habits is not just about reducing your risk of being in a crash. It can also lead to financial benefits. Michigan's auto insurance rates are among the highest in the nation, partly due to the frequency of crashes. By practicing defensive driving, motorists can maintain clean driving records, which may result in lower insurance premiums. Additionally, defensive driving can save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce the emotional and financial burdens associated with car crashes.
Conclusion
Michigan’s crash statistics paint a clear picture: driving on the state's roads can be dangerous, but many crashes are preventable. By adopting defensive driving habits, such as staying alert, adjusting for weather conditions, maintaining safe distances, and anticipating potential hazards, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of being involved in a collision. These habits not only make the roads safer for everyone but also contribute to fewer injuries, fatalities, and financial losses across the state.
Defensive driving is not just a set of skills—it's a mindset that keeps Michigan drivers safer every day. Cultivate that mindset in your new driver, and maybe even develop some safer habits yourself. We’re all working together to be safer out on the road!
