1. Drive Alert

There is a new universe of risk on the roads in the last 5 years. Drivers are driving faster, more aggressively, and more distracted. Our driving culture has changed and it is leading to accidents that are causing serious injury and worse. Stay alert by glove boxing your phone (so you won’t be tempted to use it) and keep your eyes on the road scanning for hazards.

2. Drive Buckled

There is no doubt that seat belts save lives, especially in a violent collision or when a vehicle you’re driving runs off the road. Seatbelts can also save you from a serious head or neck injury by preventing your head from being propelled into the front dash and windshield. It should be second-nature to buckle up, but sadly statistics say otherwise.

3. Drive Cautious

The reality is that you can no longer trust other drivers to follow the rules of the road. Previously safe drivers have now turned into dangerous drivers by driving aggressively or using their phone behind the wheel. More drivers are running red lights, blowing through stop signs, changing lanes without regard to other traffic, and routinely driving like they are in a hurry. Drive cautiously by watching your speed, holding your lane, and anticipating hazardous situations.

4. Drive Defensively

This tip probably deserves to be at the top of the list. There is no better approach to driving. Protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the roadway by always driving defensively.

5. Review Your Insurance Coverages

You should consider auto insurance coverages that are at least $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident. Not only will you be better protected in the event you cause an accident, but you also have good protection in the event you or your passengers are injured by an un-insured motorist. When you are injured by a driver who does not have insurance, your own insurance steps in and provides coverage. The amount of coverage you have to protect yourself is based on the amount of uninsured motorist coverage you purchase. Make sure you purchase at least $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident in protection against an uninsured motorist. Also, ask your agent to add under-insured motorist coverage to your policy. This is separate protection against a driver who does not carry enough insurance to cover your injury claim.