Avoiding Crashes

Most crashes are avoidable. Paying close attention to your surroundings will help you choose the proper crash avoidance.

The chance of a crash doubles if a teen driver has another teen in the vehicle.

If you see a vehicle on the side of the road, warn other vehicles behind you by tapping your brake pedal three or four times.

You have three options to try and avoid a crash.

Stop: You could avoid a crash by stopping quickly. The proper way to use ABS in an emergency is to apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal. Continue until the vehicle has stopped, or the danger has passed. ABS will help you stop with little or no skidding by keeping the wheels from locking up when you brake. Make sure to watch out for cars behind you as stopping quickly could cause someone behind you to crash into you.

Turn: You could consider turning to avoid a crash. Make sure you have a good grip with both hands on the steering wheel. Once you have turned away or changed lanes, you must be ready to keep the vehicle under control. Some drivers steer away from one collision only to end up in another. Always steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. Do not steer into the oncoming lane of traffic.

Speed Up: Sometimes it is best to speed up to avoid a crash. This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit you from the side or from behind you. Be sure to slow down once the danger has passed.