Have you ever wondered if you are a good driver? Often, the difference between being a “good” driver and a “bad” driver comes down to knowing how to stay alert behind the wheel and how to adapt well to changing road or traffic conditions. It’s important to stay informed on proper safety precautions to prevent future accidents. Here are three signs that you are a good driver from Roadway Insurance, your affordable car insurance provider in Maryland:
You Stay Focused Behind The Wheel
Drivers need to stay focused at all times to ensure their safety as well as the safety of those around them. If you are too tired to drive, you may find yourself at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. Avoid driving while drowsy, and if needed, pull over for a power nap. Additionally, if you are inebriated in any way, you should phone a friend for a ride or stay where you are until your system is cleared. Even if you are feeling well, there are many common mistakes that drivers make that increase their risks of experiencing an accident. For example, talking on a hands-free device, sending or reading text messages, and playing excessively loud music while behind the wheel are all activities that will take your focus off of the road. By staying alert, you will be able to easily hear sirens or horns, maintain a safe distance from the cars around you, and avoid making last-minute lane switches.
You Adapt Well To The Elements
Knowing how to drive safely in any weather condition could be the difference between a life-threatening accident and a safe return home. Often, the elements will make driving more difficult as vision range is limited or road conditions change suddenly. During extreme rain, drivers should turn on their headlights, slow down their speed, and avoid driving in standing water on the roadway. For snow or icy conditions, you may need to consider purchasing snow tires that offer more traction than standard tires. All drivers should consider keeping a few essential supplies in the car just in case they become stranded on the road due to extreme weather conditions or traffic concerns. For foggy conditions, remember to drive with low beams and fog lights as your regular brights can worsen visibility because they reflect off the fog. If you ever feel uncomfortable driving in extreme weather, you should pull away from the road and turn your hazards on.
You Have Car Insurance
Even the safest drivers know that accidents can happen, and that good driving tips can only go so far. Even if you are practicing safe driving protocols, the cars around you may not be. Maryland drivers must maintain a minimum coverage of 30/60/15: $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury for two or more people, and $15,000 for property damage. It’s against the law to drive uninsured in Maryland, and if you are caught, you may face the following fines and penalties:
- $150 fine for the first 30 days and $7 for each additional day, up to an annual maximum of $2500 per vehicle.
- Your registration will be suspended; if you drive with a suspended registration, your vehicle may be impounded and you may be ticketed and/or fined.
Additionally, failure to respond to MVA insurance notifications will result in your case being transferred to the Central Collections Unit (CCU). Once your case is sent to CCU, fines are subject to a 17% collection fee, and your income tax return will be intercepted.
Roadway Insurance provides affordable car insurance for Maryland drivers who have been unable to obtain car insurance otherwise. We work with each driver on a case by case basis to build an insurance package that fits their budget and meets their coverage needs. Get a Free Quote Today!