Being a defensive driver entails utilizing various road skills to defend yourself against potential accident hazards. Using proper defensive driving techniques will help keep both you and other drivers safe on the road. With this in mind, be sure to implement the following defensive driving guidance the next time you get behind the wheel.

  • Eliminate distractions. The first step in being a defensive driver is to reduce distractions while you drive. As such, it’s important to make sure the road is your sole focus—avoid using your cellphone, adjusting the radio, programming your GPS, eating, drinking or applying makeup behind the wheel.
  • Remain alert. In addition to eliminating distractions, it’s vital to be fully aware of your surroundings on the road. This practice will help you better detect upcoming hazards, allowing you to respond as quickly and safely as possible. Check your mirrors often, and try to scan road conditions approximately 20 to 30 seconds ahead of you. Specifically, keep an eye out for other drivers, nearby pedestrians and road obstructions (e.g., traffic cones or construction work).
  • Follow the rules of the road. This includes wearing your seat belt, obeying speed limits, using your turn signals and avoiding driving with excess passengers in your vehicle. Also, make sure you approach intersections with caution—never run a red light or stop sign. Even if you have the right of way, look around to confirm it’s safe to cross the intersection before doing so.
  • Avoid aggressive driving (and drivers). Aggressive habits—such as switching lanes frequently, braking or accelerating suddenly, and tailgating other drivers—can increase your likelihood of being involved in an accident. Try to be as predictable and forgiving as possible by always leaving at least a four-second distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, avoiding abrupt lane changes and keeping a steady pace. If another driver is displaying aggressive habits, try to distance yourself from them or pull over when it is safe to do so.
  • Be extra careful in adverse conditions. In severe weather (e.g., heavy rain, snow and fog), road conditions can be significantly more dangerous. Take additional precautions by reducing your speed, increasing your following distance, braking earlier and using your headlights.

Don’t Forget to Take Care of Your Vehicle

Even the most defensive drivers could contribute to an accident on the road if operating an unsafe vehicle. Make sure you keep your vehicle in good shape by taking it for routine oil changes and fluid checks, ensuring the tires are properly inflated and performing other maintenance as needed. For additional driving safety tips and auto insurance solutions, contact us today.

Read Other Blog Posts

Deer Sign

Road Safety and Wildlife: What Drivers Need to Know

Every year, countless accidents occur because drivers aren't prepared for unexpected encounters with animals on the road. Whether it's a deer darting across a rural highway or a stray dog wandering into city traffic, these moments can be dangerous for both humans and animals. Staying alert and understanding how to respond in these situations can make a critical difference in preventing harm and keeping roads safer for everyone.
Quest for the Best 2025

We Did It Again! 5-Time Gold Winners in Quest for the Best

We’re proud to announce we’ve won Gold in MyFM 101.3’s Quest for the Best – Insurance Category for the 5th year in a row! Thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support us. If you're a client, we’re grateful for your trust. If you’re looking for a second opinion, we’d love the chance to earn your business.
Happy driver

The Benefits of Raising Your Limits

An overwhelming majority of states require individuals to carry insurance in order to operate a vehicle. While meeting these minimum limits may be enough to get you on the road, they may be inadequate if you are involved in a serious accident. For better protection, you may want to consider raising your limits to secure proper protection.
Murphy Insurance Team

27 Reasons to Work with Murphy Insurance Agency

For more than 88 years, Murphy Insurance Agency has been a trusted partner for families, individuals, and businesses across Massachusetts. As a family-owned and independent agency, we prioritize relationships over transactions, offering guidance and support tailored to your needs. With access to more than 25 top-rated carriers, we deliver personalized solutions, competitive options, and peace of mind. Discover 27 reasons why thousands have chosen Murphy Insurance to protect what matters most.
Personal Article Floater

What Is a Personal Article Floater—and Do You Need One?

Many people assume that their home or renters insurance covers all their personal belongings—but it's not always that simple. While these policies do offer significant protection, there are usually limits, especially when it comes to high-value or one-of-a-kind items. If you own something valuable, rare, or that you often take with you, you may want to consider adding a personal article floater to your coverage.
Home Fall Prep for Winter

Fall Into Home Prep: Smart Projects to Help You Avoid Winter Insurance Claims

Fall is the perfect time to tackle home maintenance projects before winter sets in. Use our seasonal checklist to protect your home, prevent costly damage, and keep everything running smoothly—inside and out.
Living room

Renting Out Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know About Liability and Insurance

Renting out your home—whether short-term or long-term—can provide extra income but also introduces legal and insurance risks. Before listing your property, it's essential to research local laws, use a clear rental agreement, screen tenants carefully, and ensure your insurance policy provides the right coverage. Taking steps like securing valuables, documenting your home’s condition, and staying accessible can help protect your property and minimize potential issues.
Ashley Pu Calderon and Wayne Texeira

Working with Co-op Students Yields a Mutually Beneficial Experience

As summer winds down and the next academic year approaches, we at Murphy Insurance Agency are both proud and a little wistful as we say goodbye to Ashley Pu Calderon, our most recent co-op student from Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School. While we’re sad to see her go, we’re incredibly excited for her as she begins her college journey
College Students 1200

Headed to College? Don’t Forget About Insurance

Whether it’s freshman year or senior year, sending a student off to college is a big deal. Between class schedules, dorm shopping, moving day, and maybe a few emotional goodbyes, there’s a lot going on. With so much happening, it’s easy to overlook things like insurance. But here’s the thing: insurance should definitely be on your college checklist, because being covered can save you time, money, and major stress down the road.

Visit Our Auto Insurance Page

Auto Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we are here to assist you in obtaining the appropriate auto insurance. Choosing the appropriate auto insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine. We simplify the process by helping you evaluate provider and policy choices, seek out discounts, and optimize your car insurance within your budget constraints. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected.