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Are you a good driver? Many of us may think we are, but, in reality, some might have picked up some bad habits over the years as we’ve spent many hours sitting behind the wheel. If you’ve found yourself being involved in accidents quite frequently, or even if you’ve had a few near misses, this could indicate that you need to have a look at the standard of your driving behavior.

The thing is: it can be very tricky to break those habits we’ve developed. So what can you do? There are a few tasks you can carry out to make sure that you can complete these changes for the better - so you’re involved in fewer accidents, your insurance premium can come down, and, crucially, you’re a safer driver for your family and other road users.

Check your behavior

You need to get insight into what your poor driving habits are so you can address them. Are you driving accelerating excessively, for example, or are you using your phone when you’re at the wheel? Think about how you’re behaving.

Get driver coaching

Training and education are key to you changing your driving habits. Once you know about what your poor habits are, and the safety risks involved with them, then you can spot these yourself and then correct it. By getting driver coaching, you can then get support, continue learning, and get motivated.

If you are currently classed as a high-risk driver, you can still get car insurance from brands such as Homecanadafinancial.com. Even with a poor driving record, you can get cover for you and your vehicle as you improve your habits and ensure you become a better driver.

Have a no distracted driving policy

Distracted driving is where you are driving while engaging in another activity, with your attention being taken off the road or your hands are off the wheel. Not only is this illegal in many places, but it also increases the chances of you being involved in a vehicle crash. You may be punished for distracted driving with a fine or even jail, depending on how serious the offense may be.

You can improve the safety of you and other drivers by enforcing a ‘no distractions’ policy. A significant part of this will be not using your cell phone while in the car - such as making or accepting calls, or responding to or reading text messages.

Keep your vehicle maintained

You should make sure your vehicle is well maintained and checked, so you reduce the likelihood of having a car breakdown or having a crash because of a malfunction. Keep to the routine preventative maintenance schedule on servicing, according to recommendations from your vehicle manufacturer.

By keeping your car in good condition, you can then help to prevent crashes as well as breakdowns. This includes changing your oil regularly, making sure your tires are inflated correctly, and your brakes are also working properly. Your vehicle’s plugs and hoses should also be tightly sealed and be in good condition.

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