18 tips to driving defensively

• Be prepared for anything.

• Keep your mind on your driving. Keep your eyes on the road, and other drivers, and keep both hands on the wheel.

• Constantly look well ahead for changes in traffic or road conditions. If you see a lot of brake lights, slow down and be prepared to stop.

• Yield to drivers who are determined to get there first.

• Keep checking your rear view and side mirrors for traffic.

• Always expect the other driver to do the unexpected -- speed up, slow down, pass, cut across lanes.

• Learn your mirrors' "Blind Spots". Always turn your head and look for other vehicles (especially motorcycles) before changing lanes. Remember that your work vehicle will have different "Blind Spots" than your personal vehicle.

• Watch for sudden movements - like pedestrians, bicycles, or animals darting into the road in front of you.

• Carry emergency equipment. - a jack, spare tire (have you checked your spare tire for proper inflation lately?), flashlight, first aid kit, flares.

• Don't speed! Watch for changing speed limits in urban areas.

• Obey the laws. Follow traffic rules, signs and signals.

• Don't drive under the influence of drugs, alcohol or fatigue. (Remember cold medicines, and prescription drugs.)

• Stay at least 2 (two) seconds behind the other driver, more under poor conditions.

• Adjust your speed and driving to changing weather and traffic conditions.

• Lock your vehicle and take your keys with you when you leave it.

• Be a defensive driver. Protect yourself and others. You are the professional driver, most people on the road are not.

• Walk behind your vehicle before you back up.

• Be a courteous driver. Your truck is a moving billboard, make a positive impression with other drivers, not a negative one.