Understanding dangerous driving

When you are out on the road, you need to be able to keep yourself and your passengers safe. That means knowing everything you can about how to operate your vehicle and putting that knowledge into practice in ways that help you minimize risk.

For the most part, people already know how to maximize safety when it comes to understanding factors like the weather or the particular quirks of a vehicle they drive often. What can be more difficult is learning how to read the behavior of others on the road, including how to spot warning signs that let you know a driver is dangerous.

Types of dangerous driver

It is worth noting that the signs discussed here are general signs of dangerous driving. Often, they point to particular problems like drunk driving, a lack of coordination due to physical issues, or reckless decision-making on the part of another driver. Unless you are a trained professional, it can be difficult to know what kind of danger an erratic driver represents, but it also does not matter. Your best option is the same under any circumstances-stay away, out of their path, and keep yourself safe.

Signs of dangerous driving

Anyone can make a mistake or two, but you want to be on the lookout for drivers whose habits cause a pattern of these behaviors by either combining several of them or by repeatedly engaging in just a few.

• Failure to use a turn signal

• Driving far faster or slower than the flow of traffic

• Weaving in and out of traffic

• Failing to stop and heed signs or signals

• Unpredictably stopping in traffic

• Unpredictable and inappropriate acceleration

• Tailgating

• Hitting curbs or repeatedly riding onto the shoulder of the road

The AARP lists several other possible concerns that aging drivers should be on the lookout for before getting behind the wheel. Knowing those signs as well as the signs of a dangerous driver can be a great way to keep a check on yourself while learning how to spot erratic driving in others. **

If you are in an accident

Your best bet is to work with an attorney whose experience with auto accident claims can be put to work for you. That way, you have the best chance of recovering damages that will pay for your major medical expenses relating to the accident.

The longer you wait to seek legal advice, the more difficult it can be to make your case. If you have been hurt, talk to a lawyer right away.