If you commute to work, it probably feels like you spend a lot of time in your car. And if you commute more than 20 minutes to and from work, you are not alone.
According to NPR, most drivers in America who commute spend an average of 26.9 minutes traveling to or from work. Spending this much time in your car can put you at a greater risk of getting into a car accident, so you should familiarize yourself with some strategies for driving safely in traffic.
1. Maintain a safe distance
It is easy to feel stressed about getting to work on time or getting home in a timely manner. But even if you feel anxious about getting where you need to go, leave enough distance between your car and the one in front of you and do not swerve in between lanes.
2. Plan your route
It can be difficult to drive safely if you simultaneously try to figure out which roads and exits to take, which can make a car accident more likely. Before you leave, plan out which route you will take to get to your destination.
3. Watch other cars closely
Remain alert to what is happening on the road around you. For example, if you see brake lights illuminating up ahead of you, plan on slowing down or coming to a stop.
Even if you try to drive safely on your commute, you cannot control how others drive. If you get into an accident while in traffic, take steps to protect your interests.