Slow down – particularly if it is dark, when it is raining or snowing, or when you’re in an unfamiliar area. Don’t feel that you have to maintain the posted speed limit. You may actually be speeding if the posted speed limit is too fast for the existing conditions.

Many collisions occur because of driver distraction. If you’re traveling with someone else, ask them to make any radio or climate control adjustments. Don’t try to read, apply make-up, shave or talk on the phone while you drive; handle these activities before or after your trip – or at least get out of traffic if you must do any of these enroute.

Don’t drive when you are tired. On long trips, take a break at least every two hours. Studies show that driving while tired can be as dangerous as driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Be mindful of any medications that you may be taking as these can affect your ability to drive safely.

If your vehicle has an anti-lock brake system (ABS), make sure that you use it correctly and remember that you can still steer the vehicle. Before the development of ABS, drivers were taught to "pump" their brakes, especially on wet, icy, or other slippery roads. ABS essentially does the pumping for you. This helps you to stop the vehicle sooner and straighter. Just apply firm, steady pressure to the brake pedal. The ABS system will pump the brakes to reduce the risk that your vehicle will skid out of control, and will increase your ability to steer as the vehicle speed decreases.

Know your limits. As you get older, your night vision, peripheral vision, and reaction time are not as good as they were when you started driving. Don’t drive at night if you’re uncomfortable. Increase the distance you allow between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Schedule appointments so you’re not on the road during rush hour. These are good suggestions for newer drivers as well.

Think ahead – and signal your intent. Don’t wait until the last minute to get in the proper lane to exit or make a turn. Be thinking about your options if someone were to swerve in front of you. Use your turn signals and brake lights to avoid surprising other drivers.

Help prevent road rage. Change lanes when you can to give merging drivers room. Let others pass you. Don’t retaliate if others drive aggressively.