Car accidents can happen in an instant, often with devastating consequences. While not all accidents are avoidable, many can be prevented by practicing safe driving habits. Being aware of your surroundings, maintaining your vehicle, and staying focused on the road are essential steps to keeping yourself and others safe. Here are five tips to help reduce the risk of car accidents. Focus Entirely on Driving The leading cause of car accidents is distracted driving, mainly due to smartphone use. Even a split second of distraction can result in a collision. To stay safe, keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and mind fully engaged in driving. Follow Speed Limits and Adjust for Conditions Speed limits are in place for a reason—they help ensure drivers have enough time to react to unexpected situations. Driving too fast reduces your ability to stop quickly, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic. Always follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on road conditions, such as rain or fog, which can reduce visibility and traction. Keep a Safe Following Distance Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end collisions. Maintaining a safe following distance gives you enough time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or slows down. A good rule of thumb is the “three-second rule”—choose a stationary object on the side of the road and ensure at least three seconds pass between the car ahead of you passing it and you reaching the same point. In poor weather conditions, increase this distance to allow for longer stopping times. Regularly Maintain Your Vehicle A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to experience mechanical failures that can lead to accidents. Regularly check your brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels to ensure everything is in working order. Worn-out brake pads, underinflated tires, or faulty headlights can increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle or being less visible to other drivers. Keeping up with routine maintenance and addressing any issues promptly will help keep your car safe on the road. Be Aware of Other Drivers Even if you follow all traffic laws and drive cautiously, you can’t control the actions of other drivers. Defensive driving means staying alert, anticipating potential hazards, and being ready to react to sudden movements. Watch for erratic behavior—such as swerving, speeding, or abrupt lane changes—and give reckless drivers plenty of space. Always use your mirrors, check blind spots, and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary. Collision Repair in San Antonio, TX For collision repair in San Antonio and the surrounding area, contact Master Match Collision Center at  210-503-9560  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for auto body and collision repair services in greater San Antonio!