The world is a dangerous place, and driving can be one of the riskiest activities there is. It should come as no surprise that accidents happen every day on our roads. But it should also come as no surprise that you can do a lot to reduce your risk of getting into an accident by following these six tips.

1. Drive Defensively

Driving defensively is not the same as driving aggressively. It is actually quite the opposite. Driving defensively means driving safely and driving for yourself as well as the others on the road around you. According to NYC auto accident lawyers, "Car crashes take nearly 1,100 New York lives annually, and result in 137,000 emergency room visits and 12,000 injury victim hospitalizations." Driving defensively is so important because it keeps you alert to the other drivers on the road, whether they are driving erratically or driving sensibly. You should also drive defensively when you are in bad weather or poor conditions. Many accidents can be avoided if everyone drives defensively all of the time. If everyone takes a little more time to be aware of the other drivers, then we can all reduce our risks of getting into accidents.

2. Don't Use Your Phone While Driving

Talking on the phone is never a good idea while driving but texting is even worse because it takes your eyes off of the road and hands from the wheel. In many states, it is now illegal to text and drive. If you must use your phone while driving, then use a hands-free device. That way, you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

3. Wear Your Seatbelt

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but many people still do not wear their seatbelts. In fact, in some states, it is still legal to ride in the back of a pickup truck without a seatbelt. But wearing your seatbelt is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe while driving. It keeps you in your seat in the event of an accident and can save your life.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When you are driving, you should be aware of what is going on around you. This means being aware of the other cars on the road, but it also means being aware of the people and things around you. If you see something that makes you concerned, then take appropriate action. Do not hesitate to change lanes or pull off to the side of the road if necessary.

5. Follow the Rules of the Road

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it is still important. Following the rules of the road will help keep you safe and will also keep traffic flowing smoothly. If everyone drives the speed limit, uses their turn signals, and obeys all other traffic laws, then the roads will be much safer for everyone. Driving requires many different skills but one thing it does not require is to be good at any of them individually. Unfortunately, some people think only about the final destination instead of focusing on how they are getting there. It takes more than just being behind the wheel to drive safely; it takes practice too, as most drivers learn by trial and error.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

No one knows when an emergency will happen, but if you are prepared for it, you will be better off. This means keeping a first-aid kit in your car and knowing how to use it. It also means keeping a flashlight, some cables, and a few other supplies in your car in case of an emergency. You should also have a plan in case you are ever in an accident. Know who to call and what to do.

Everyone should carry an emergency kit in their car. This kit can help you through many emergencies that might come up while you are driving or after an accident. These kits should include things like flares, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, tools for changing tires, and water. If you have an accident, then this kit could save your life.

We all know safety is always a priority on the road, but there are ways to make it even safer. One way would be to drive defensively and stay alert. Another way is to be aware of your surroundings and do not text or talk on the phone while driving. Safety should be at the top of your list when you hit the road!