The year is coming to an end, and so are the contributions to our prevention series. Today comes the fifth. Last post with the topic: lane change. On top you get some useful tips for everyday life on the road!
A proper lane change has to be learned! Mutual consideration. Caution is the first commandment in road traffic. The rules of this are stated in the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). Lane changing is an important part of driver training. If this is not done correctly, collisions and accidents will occur.
According to § 7 paragraph 5 StVO a lane change may only take place "if a danger to other road users is excluded." – What does it mean translated?
Rules of thumb for changing lanes
– Is it really necessary to change lanes? Yes, there are situations where you can't avoid changing lanes. For example when you want to turn left. You must change to the left lane.
– First check whether it is really necessary to change lanes and if so, turn on the turn signal! This way, following traffic is informed that you want to change lanes or make a turn.
– Keep an eye on the traffic with the help of the inside and outside mirrors and make sure that you do not endanger anyone with the maneuver.
– Drive to the line that indicates the lane (we all know them, the white short lines in the middle of the lane ;))
– If the way is clear, drive over the dotted line. If you see that another vehicle has not seen your operation, you can stop the lane change.
– Remember to look over your shoulder, because you can't always see the person behind you in the mirror (blind spot).
– Only change lanes if the traffic situation allows it. Other participants do not have to let you on the trail in front of them. Foresight and consideration really play a big role here. Pushers who try to force lane changes cause accidents, and on the highway can cause significant personal injury.
If a rear-end collision still occurs, the person who changed lanes is usually liable. However, the other road user may also be partially at fault if, for example, he accelerates abruptly. This is something that you as a driver can not foresee.
You can read more about changing lanes here!
Drivers have a demanding job
It's all the more important to keep them mentally and physically fit. In addition to a healthy diet and sufficient exercise, there are other things that need to be considered:
– Make sure that no loose objects can fly through the car. In the event of emergency braking, this can be a real eye sore.
– Always fasten your seat belt! A vehicle is a commodity. Must be maintained regularly. Besides timely reporting of malfunctions, you need to keep an eye on certain things. Refill the windshield wiper fluid regularly, check the condition and air pressure of the tires regularly, etc.
– To keep stress to a minimum and avoid wasting time unnecessarily, use a navigation device.
– Use the phone only in an emergency and, most importantly, with a hands-free system or headset!
– Always keep the prescribed safe distance from other road users. In case of rain and snow, the distance must be even greater.
– Try to avoid sudden braking or acceleration. It can be dangerous, increases fuel consumption and therefore causes additional pollution.
We hope you enjoyed our little prevention series and you were able to take something from it. Feedback and a lively exchange of experiences are, as always, very welcome!