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Why do so many Americans make these 14 driving mistakes?

Driving is a complex skill that requires knowledge of the rules of the road and the ability to make quick decisions. Unfortunately, many people get driving rules wrong, which can lead to accidents and traffic jams. In fact, if you’re on the road much at all, you’ll probably agree that a lot of drivers could use a refresher course.

Here are 14 driving rules that way too many people get wrong on the regular.

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1. Using indicators

Sure, we all don’t know our turn is coming up from time to time, but it seems like some people may have broken their turn signals and have no interest in getting them repaired. 

Indicators are not optional. They are there to communicate your intentions to other drivers and help them stay safe. Use your indicators whenever you are changing lanes, turning, or merging.

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2. Properly executing zipper merges

A zipper merge is when two lanes of traffic merge into one lane. The correct way to do a zipper merge is to take turns merging, one car from each lane at a time. This helps to keep traffic flowing smoothly and prevents congestion.

So, if you’re that person who moves left as soon as you see two lanes merging and then won’t let people in the right lane merge, you are the problem.

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3. Lowering your high beams

High beams are great for illuminating dark roads, but they can blind oncoming drivers. Be sure to lower your high beams when you see another vehicle approaching.

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4. Yielding to pedestrians

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks, even if there is no flashing light or stop sign. Be sure to come to a complete stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely.

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5. Stopping at stop signs and red lights

It may seem like a no-brainer, but many people roll through stop signs and red lights. This is dangerous and illegal. Always come to a complete stop before proceeding through an intersection.

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6. Following the speed limit

Speed limits are in place for a reason: to keep drivers and pedestrians safe. Exceeding the speed limit is dangerous and can lead to a ticket.

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7. Using your turn signal before changing lanes

This is another driving rule that many people get wrong. It is important to use your turn signal before changing lanes so that other drivers know what you are doing.

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8. Leaving enough space between you and the car in front of you

Tailgating is dangerous and can lead to rear-end collisions. Be sure to leave enough space between you and the car in front of you so that you have time to stop safely if they do.

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9. Not passing on the right

Passing on the right is illegal and dangerous. Only pass on the left when it is safe to do so.

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10. Moving over for emergency vehicles

When you see an emergency vehicle with its lights and sirens on, you are required to move over to the side of the road and stop. This gives the emergency vehicle room to safely pass.

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11. Driving defensively

Defensive driving means being aware of your surroundings and anticipating the actions of other drivers. This can help you avoid accidents.

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12. Not using your phone while driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Put your phone away while driving and focus on the road.

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13. Not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous. It can lead to serious injury or death.

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14. Wearing your seatbelt

Seatbelts save lives. Make sure that everyone in your car is wearing a seatbelt every time you drive.

This article was produced and syndicated by MediaFeed.

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