Whether you’re a new driver, or have been on the road for years, there are bound to be some driving habits that annoy you. In fact, you might be unknowingly be ‘that person’ who’s doing something unsafe on the road that annoys the drivers around you.
It’s important to be aware of your driving and how it affects those around you. Driving on the road in New Zealand assumes common courtesy and respect for all road users and it can be the ‘make or break’ of whether you’re going to have a pleasant drive or not. Unfortunately, all drivers can relate to the fact that ‘common courtesy’ isn’t that common at all.
Here are some unsafe driving habits that drivers display and which you should avoid or stop.
Not using your indicators
Not signalling before a turn is not only dangerous for other drivers on the road, but pedestrians and cyclists too. It prevents them from anticipating what you’re doing and increases the risks of an accident. That’s why it’s important to stick to the first rule of driving: mirror, signal, manoeuvre.
However, also be aware that leaving your indicators on for too long can be just as annoying. And, if you turn your indicators on too early, other drivers won’t know when you’re turning, which makes the use of signals of no value.
Tailgating
Having someone follow your car very closely can be intimidating and stressful. If this happens to you, the best thing to do is let them pass. After all, no one should feel anxious about having to brake suddenly if a situation calls for it.
If you’re following a car that’s travelling slower than you’d like, try your best to avoid tailgating it. Instead, wait for a passing lane, or pass if they pull over to the side.
Aggressive driving can not only cause an accident but can also mean you end up on the wrong end of a vindictive reaction, like sudden brake-checking – a sharp stab on the brake. Don’t let a slow driver push you into road rage – simply slow down and follow the two-second following rule.
Not sticking to the speed limit
Going over or under the speed limit is a bad habit that is bound to frustrate other drivers and your passengers. When you’re driving too fast, it’s more difficult to avoid speed bumps, potholes, and blind corners, which can make other road users anxious and increase the risks of an accident. And, if you’re driving too slowly, this can cause others to become frustrated, which can lead to risky driving manoeuvres so they can pass. It’s perfectly acceptable to drive at your own pace but be mindful to keep left and always look for opportunities to let others pass.
Not checking your blind spot
Most of us have been in a situation when a car in the lane next to us suddenly moves across into our lane, forcing us to swerve suddenly to avoid an accident. This is a direct result of a driver not looking over their shoulder at their blind spot before moving over. Make it a habit to always glance over your shoulder before pulling into traffic or changing lanes.
Ignoring traffic lights
When the traffic light goes amber, we all know this is an indication the lights are about to turn red. If you know you’re going to make it through the intersection before the lights turn red, or if you’re not able to stop safely in time, it’s ok to driver through on an amber light. But, if you’re putting your foot down because you’re too impatient to wait, this is a dangerous habit you should break. It’s dangerous and not worth the risk of a major – and potentially life-threatening – collision.
Using your mobile phone
It’s illegal to be on your cellphone when you drive but, despite this law, hundreds of Kiwis still get distracted by devices. Data released by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi shows that in 2020 there were two fatal crashes, three serious crashes, 68 minor crashes, and 88 non-injury crashes where cellphone use was a factor. If you know you get easily distracted by your phone, put it in the glove box and keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.