Driving is a valuable skill that takes practice and knowledge. If you’ve been behind the wheel for a while, you might feel confident enough to call yourself an expert. But driving isn’t just about turning the key and pressing the accelerator.
There’s a lot more to being a truly skilled driver. In fact, even seasoned drivers often make mistakes without realizing it—mistakes that can put their safety, and that of others, at risk. What’s more concerning is that many aren’t even aware that some of their habits are harmful.
That’s why we’re here—to help you stay safe on the road. In this guide, we’ll go over 7 common bad driving habits that many people have, both consciously and unconsciously.
1. Speeding
This one might seem obvious, right? Yet, it’s a habit many of us are guilty of. Just because it’s common doesn’t make it safe or acceptable. Speeding or driving above the posted limit is one of the leading causes of road accidents, and road safety officials constantly warn against it.
So, the next time you feel the urge to push the pedal a little harder, remind yourself that no destination is worth risking your life or someone else’s. Stay within the limit—your safety depends on it.
2. Disregarding traffic signs
This is something every driver should know it’s one of the very first lessons taught in driving school. Yet, it’s surprising how often people still ignore it. In the rush to get to our destination, many of us are tempted to overlook traffic signs, thinking it’ll save us time.
But what if that one reckless decision ends up stopping you from ever getting there at all? Traffic signs exist for a reason they’re designed to protect everyone on the road. Ignoring them might seem harmless in the moment, but it could have serious, even fatal, consequences.
3. Drunk driving
It’s Friday night, and you’ve just had a great time at the club; drinks flowing, music pumping, and good vibes all around. After all, everyone deserves to unwind once in a while. But while having fun is perfectly fine, it should never come at the cost of your safety.
If you’ve had even a small amount of alcohol or taken any kind of substance, no matter how “fine” you feel, stay away from your car keys. Driving under the influence puts not only your life at risk but also the lives of others on the road. It’s simply not worth it. Always choose a safer option call a friend, hail a ride, or wait it out.
4. Drowsy driving
Driving when you’re tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigue slows your reaction time, affects your judgment, and can even cause you to doze off behind the wheel.
If you start to feel drowsy during a long journey, don’t try to push through it. Instead, find a safe place to pull over and take a break or a short nap. You might arrive a bit later than planned but arriving late is far better than not arriving at all. Your life is worth the pause.
5. Driving without seatbelts
Seatbelts aren’t there for style they’re one of the most important safety features in your car. They’re designed to save lives, and putting one on takes just a few seconds.
So, ignore that little voice that says it’s uncomfortable or unnecessary. That small discomfort could be the difference between walking away from an accident or not walking away at all. Buckle up every single time. Because the only thing more uncomfortable than a seatbelt is a coffin.
6. Wrong parking
Whether you’re stopping for just a moment or longer, parking improperly can put the safety of other road users in jeopardy. Even if you’re in a rush or a tight spot, it’s crucial to take the time to find a proper parking space. A little extra effort can prevent accidents and ensure everyone on the road stays safe. Always park responsibly, no matter the situation.
7. Using headphones
Loud music is already a distraction, but when you add headphones or earbuds into the mix, it completely blocks you from the world around you. You lose awareness of your surroundings, which can be dangerous on the road. In fact, it’s even illegal in Nigeria for this very reason. So, keep your headphones off while driving. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your music once you’ve safely reached your destination. Your safety should always come first.