How to Handle a Dog Attack

Protect yourself and your loved ones by defusing a situation with an aggressive canine

Dogs make wonderful companions, but it's also true that some dogs will attack if they feel scared or threatened. While dog attacks are relatively rare, and most attacks that do occur only involve minor injuries, it still helps to know what to do in case you ever find yourself in that situation. Keep reading for expert advice on how to handle a dog attack in the safest way possible, what to do after an attack, and how to prevent dog attacks in the first place.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Avert your eyes to avoid eye contact and stay stiff and immobile to send the message that you aren’t a threat to the dog.
• If a dog attacks and they're small enough for you to fight back, use your weight to your advantage and strike/grab their neck to get them off of you.
• If the dog is too large to fight, get in the fetal position and protect your neck, head, and throat. They may stop attacking once you no longer seem like a threat.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Defusing an Attack

1. Stay calm and do not panic. There's some truth to the old adage that dogs and other animals can smell fear, and dogs are less likely to attack if you’re laid back and low energy. If you become agitated and run or scream, the dog is more likely to attack.^[1]
   
   • Do not wave your arms around or kick with your legs; the dog may perceive these actions as threatening.
   • An attacking dog isn’t always behaving aggressively. A lot of the time, they’re attacking because they’re scared or confused. So, the less you do to spook or confuse the dog, the less likely they’ll be to lash out.
2. Look away, be motionless, and make yourself rigid. When a dog approaches, stand completely still with your hands at your sides and avert your eyes. In many cases the dog will lose interest and walk away if you ignore them. Locking eyes or making a lot of movement can send the signal that you’re ready to fight.^[2]
   
   • Eye contact in particular can send the message to a scared or aggressive dog that you’re challenging them.
   • Stand sideways to the dog and keep them in your peripheral vision instead of facing them. This will signal to the dog that you are not a threat.
   • Don't open your hands and arms up to a bite by extending them. Keep your fingers curled into fists to avoid losing a finger. The dog may come quite close (they may even sniff you) without actually biting.
3. Do not make a run for it unless you’re certain you can get away.^[3][4] Running away can awaken the dog's prey instinct to chase and catch animals. They may pursue you vigorously even if their initial intent was just playful. Additionally, you won't be able to outrun most dogs if you're on foot. Even if you are on a bicycle, many dogs will be able to catch up to you.^[5]
   
   • If the dog is sprinting and barking at you from a distance and you’re from your car, go ahead and run to the vehicle and get inside.
4. Distract or confuse the dog with another object. If the dog continues to threaten you, offer them something to chew on, such as your backpack or water bottle. This may distract or bewilder the dog long enough to give you time to escape.
   
   • You may want to carry treats or toys when traveling in areas known to be home to dangerous dogs. If approached by an angry dog, throw your treats or toy away from you. The dog may go after these instead of you.
5. Walk away slowly after the dog calms down. If an aggressive dog finally cools off a bit as you’re standing stiff and ignoring them calmly, it’s a sign you’ve got a window to leave. Shuffle sideways away from the dog as slowly as you reasonably can to get away without turning your back or making any sudden movements.^[6]
   

[Edit]Protecting Yourself

1. Fight back if the dog leaps at you and won’t stop. If the dog starts biting you, you've got to defend yourself.^[7] Hit or kick the dog in the throat, nose, and the back of the head. This will stun the dog and give you time to get away.^[8]
   
   • Raise your voice at this point. Yell for help as you're fighting back. Hopefully others will hear and come to your aid.^[9]
   • If you have a stick or another weapon, you can (and should) use it to hit the dog.
   • If available, mace or pepper spray also work as a good defense against an attacking dog.
   • Fight as though your life depends on it, because it does. Dog attacks can be fatal, so don’t take it easy on them. If you hurt the dog, that’s okay.
2. Use your weight to your advantage and wrap the dog up. If the dog is medium-sized, bring your entire body weight to bear on the animal, specifically pushing down with the hard points of your knees or elbows. Dogs are vicious biters but they’re pretty bad at wrestling, so wrap them up and hold on. Get on top of the animal and concentrate force on their throat or ribs.^[10]
   
   • If it’s a smaller dog you can manhandle a bit, straddle the back of the dog with your body weight and apply forward pressure to the back of the neck. They’ll be forced to let go to breathe.
   • Don’t put your weight on the dog if they’re larger or they’re a breed known for jaw strength (like rottweilers, pitbulls, or German shepherds).
3. Get on the ground and protect yourself if it’s a larger, stronger dog. If you can’t realistically hurt the dog, just defend yourself. Cover your face, chest, and throat. Wrap your body up and lie down with your vital areas protected. The dog will be more likely to stop attacking you if they get the impression you’re no longer a threat.^[11]
   
   • Resist the urge to scream or roll away, since this will just encourage the dog to keep attacking.
   • If the dog doesn’t stop attacking, at least you’ll buy some time by covering up—hopefully someone will come to help.
4. Leave the area slowly and carefully. Once the dog loses interest in you, leave the scene of the attack slowly by backing away without sudden movements.^[12] Staying calm and stationary can be a real test of your nerves in such a stressful situation, but it's the best thing to do as long as the dog isn't actually biting you.^[13]
   

[Edit]Handling the Aftermath

1. Attend to any wounds as soon as possible. If you are bitten, be sure to take care of any wounds promptly, as even minor bites can cause infection. Perform basic first aid procedures for bites suffered from a dog attack:^[14]
   
   • Apply gentle pressure to stop minor bleeding. Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad. If bleeding is serious or if it won't stop after several minutes of applying pressure, seek professional medical attention immediately.
   • Wash the wound thoroughly. Use warm water and soap to gently cleanse the wound.
   • Dress the wound. Use a sterile band-aid (for very small cuts) or sterile bandages for larger lacerations.
   • Look closely for signs of infection, including redness, warmth, increasing tenderness, or oozing pus. See a doctor if any of these symptoms arise.
2. Call the police and animal control. It's important to determine whether an attacking dog has rabies or a history of aggression. Call the authorities immediately after a dog attack so that the dog can be prevented from harming anyone else and be tested for diseases.^[15]
   
   • If the dog that attacked you was a stray, they may attack others, too. Removing them from the area is the best way to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
   • For dogs with owners nearby, how you handle the situation after the attack has been diffused is up to you. If you've been hurt, you may want to take legal action. Many states have laws holding owners responsible for the actions of their dogs.
3. See a medical professional to get vaccinations and dressings. If you were bitten by an unknown dog, a dog that was later found to have rabies, or a dog that appeared to be foaming at the mouth, it's essential that you see a doctor right away to get preventative treatment for the deadly disease rabies.^[16]
   
   • The rabies shot sequence, if it is necessary, should be started as soon as possible after the bite.
   • If you haven't had a tetanus shot in the past 5 years, you may require additional preventative tetanus treatments.
   • In general, any significant wounds from a dog attack should be examined by a medical professional.

[Edit]Spotting a Dog That Could Attack

1. Look for warning signs a dog is ready to attack. Most dogs are not aggressive, but, rather, just curious or defending what they perceive as their territory. Thus, to avoid unnecessary conflict, it is important to be able to tell if a dog is just playing or is being truly aggressive. Any dog can bite, so do not ignore warning signs because you think a certain breed is harmless or friendly. Watch for common signs of aggression (and non-aggression) such as raised back hair, tail up high, bared teeth, and raised ears.^[17]
   
   • Growling, snarling, and baring teeth.
   • Pulled-back ears lying flat against the head.
   • A tense, straight, and stiff body.
   • An even, steady run with their body low to the ground.
2. Avoid aggravating a dog on accident. Most dog attacks are the result of insufficient containment of the dog, poor training, or taunting. Unfortunately, the world will never be rid of bad owners, so it is wise to be prepared. Use common sense to avoid aggravating any kind of animal.^[18]
   
   • Never pet a dog without the owner’s permission.
   • Never irritate a dog who's eating or caring for her pups. Dogs are extra-protective during these times.
   • Avoid smiling at the dog. You may think you are putting on a friendly face with a big toothy smile, but an aggressive dog sees you baring your teeth for a fight.
   • Dogs that are chained or tethered to a stationary object for extended periods of time are more likely to be aggressive, so do not come within their reach.
3. Assume all unknown and stray dogs are threats. In general, the best policy when it comes to dog attacks is to do everything you can to avoid them in the first place. If you see a dog and you have zero information to signal it’s safe, just stay away.^[19]
   
   • Report any dangerous-looking dogs or possible strays in your neighborhood to the authorities.
   • Teach your children never to approach unfamiliar dogs until they are sure they are safe.
   • By giving all unknown dogs a wide berth until you find evidence that they’re safe, you can avoid the majority of dangerous dog encounters.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Teach children the mnemonic phrase, "Never run from a dog, be a tree or a log" in case they ever encounter an aggressive dog.

[Edit]Warnings

• Keep small children away from unfamiliar dogs.
• Never pet a dog. If you sue the dog's owner, they can argue you tried petting them.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Prevent Dog Bites
• Calm Down a Playful Large Dog
• Control Your Dog's Behavior by Becoming Pack Leader
• Stay Safe when a Dog Approaches You
• React if a Mean Dog Chases You
• Handle a Puppy
• Tell if a Dog Is Getting Food Aggression
• Report a Dangerous Dog
• Deal with Aggressive Dogs when They Fight

[Edit]Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about handling dog attacks, check out our in-depth with [v162335_b01].

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention
2. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention
3. ↑ [v162335_b01]. 17 February 2023.
4. ↑ [v162313_b01]. 28 March 2023.
5. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention
6. ↑ https://omaha.net/articles/dog-attacks-and-your-safety
7. ↑ [v162313_b01]. 28 March 2023.
8. ↑ http://omaha.net/articles/dog-attacks-and-your-safety
9. ↑ [v162313_b01]. 28 March 2023.
10. ↑ https://omaha.net/articles/dog-attacks-and-your-safety
11. ↑ https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2012/01/31/1060335/-Surviving-a-Dog-Attack
12. ↑ [v162335_b01]. 17 February 2023.
13. ↑ http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/01/31/1060335/-Surviving-a-Dog-Attack#
14. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/if-a-dog-bites-you-do-these-7-things-now/
15. ↑ https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/dog-bites.page
16. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/if-a-dog-bites-you-do-these-7-things-now/
17. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention
18. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention
19. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-bite-prevention

How to Why Do My Dreams Feel So Real

Everything you need to know about intense, vivid dreams

Sometimes, you have a dream so emotionally intense and rich in detail that it feels as though it actually happened. But why? Read on to learn all you need to know about the possible causes of vivid dreams. And while vivid dreams aren't necessarily harmful in and of themselves, we'll also show you ways to prevent them if you're having dreams that scare you or make you uncomfortable.

[Edit]Causes of Vivid Dreams

• Vivid dreams feel so emotionally intense and real because the same parts of your brain that process sensory information when you're awake are active.
• Vivid dreams have many causes, including stress or anxiety, hormonal shifts, sleep disorders, and various medications.
• If you find vivid dreams overwhelming, you can prevent them by practicing good sleep hygiene, using relaxation techniques, and avoiding alcohol or recreational drugs.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Possible Causes of Vivid Dreams

1. Stress and anxiety{endbold} If you're experiencing a lot of stress and anxiety in your waking life, that can have a profound impact on your sleep. In addition to leading to sleep disturbances, it can also cause you to have more vivid dreams.^[1]
   
   • Vivid dreams caused by stress and anxiety are more likely to be upsetting or frightening dreams.
2. Alcohol or drug use{endbold} Alcohol and recreational drugs can sometimes lead to vivid dreams, especially if you partake on a regular basis.^[2] On the other end of the spectrum, alcohol suppresses REM sleep, so if you used to drink frequently, abstaining from alcohol can actually lead to more vivid dreams.^[3]
   
3. Hormonal shifts{endbold} Changes in the hormones in your body, especially those associated with pregnancy, can lead to vivid dreams. In the later stages of pregnancy, you're also more likely to have upsetting or frightening dreams that are particularly vivid.^[4]
   
   • Other dramatic hormonal shifts, such as those associated with puberty, menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can also cause vivid dreams.
4. Sleep deprivation{endbold} If you haven't had a good night's sleep in a while, such as if you suffer from insomnia, you might experience an REM rebound. The more REM sleep you have in a night, the more likely you are to also have vivid dreams—especially nightmares.^[5]
   
   • Fortunately, your nightmares and vivid dreams will typically stop on their own once you've had several nights of sufficient sleep.
5. Sleep disorders{endbold} Narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness) in particular is associated with vivid dreams. People with narcolepsy frequently report experiencing vivid and bizarre dreams. Other sleep disorders, including sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome, can sometimes trigger vivid dreams.^[6]
   
   • If you're woken up in the middle of REM sleep, you're also more likely to remember your dreams more vividly than if you have the opportunity to progress through the sleep cycles before waking.
6. Medications{endbold} Stimulants, some prescription sleep aids, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications have all been linked with an increase in vivid dreams, and particularly nightmares, in some patients. These drugs might cause you to have more vivid dreams than you have in the past. They can also increase the vividness of the vivid dreams that you already have.^[7]
   
   • Some medications have actually been taken off the market because of this side effect, even though vivid dreams aren't harmful in and of themselves.^[8]
7. Physical or mental health conditions{endbold} Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia have been linked to vivid dreams, especially nightmares. Nightmares are also strongly connected to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).^[9]
   
   • Sleep disturbances, including vivid dreams, are also associated with age-related neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.^[10]

[Edit]What are vivid dreams?

1. Dreams that feel emotionally intense and real are "vivid dreams." Dreams happen during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep. When you dream, the parts of your brain that process sensory information are active, but the rational, reasoning parts of your brain aren't. That's why the weird parts of your dream only seem weird when you recall your dream after you wake up.
   
   • Vivid dreams are just like any other dream, except that they seem more real and you can recall more details from them.
   • You're most likely to remember a vivid dream if you're awoken in the middle of REM sleep, such as by an alarm clock.
   • International intuitive counselor and happiness coach Kari Samuels recommends that you "pay attention to your dreams because your dreams are always telling you something that your conscious mind doesn't want to pick up on."^[11]

[Edit]Preventing Vivid Dreams

1. Practice good sleep hygiene. Good sleep hygiene includes going to bed at the same time every night and establishing relaxing routines before bed. When you practice good sleep hygiene, your mind and body are prepared for sleep so you can fall asleep more quickly and awake refreshed. You're also less likely to awake during the REM cycle, which is when vivid dreams occur. Other good sleep hygiene practices include:^[12]
   
   • Turn off all electronics at least an hour before bed.
   • Only use your bedroom for sleeping or sexual activity.
   • Keep your bedroom cool and completely dark at night.
   • Take a warm bath or shower 20-30 minutes before bed.
   • Avoid caffeine for at least 6 hours before you plan to go to bed.
2. Use relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. Try deep-breathing exercises or practice yoga to help promote relaxation in your mind and body. These techniques, along with establishing a regular meditation practice, can help ease the negative effects of stress and anxiety.^[13]
   
   • Relaxation techniques are especially important if you've determined that daytime levels of stress and anxiety are potentially causing your vivid dreams.
3. Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. Alcohol and recreational drugs mess with your sleep quality generally, but they can also cause you to have vivid dreams, especially ones that are upsetting. Even if you don't abstain entirely, cut off substance use at least a couple of hours before you go to bed to lower the risk of having vivid dreams.^[14]
   
   • Withdrawal from alcohol and recreational drugs has also been linked to nightmare disorder, which involves repeated vivid dreams that are scary.^[15]
4. Try taking a melatonin supplement. For people with some sleeping disorders, melatonin supplements can reduce vivid dreams. For everyone else, there's conflicting research on how melatonin affects dreams—but it probably won't hurt to try it and see if you notice any difference.^[16]
   
   • Talk to your doctor before you commit to melatonin supplements on a regular basis, especially if you've been prescribed other medications. There've been no studies on the long-term effects of melatonin supplements.
   • For some people, melatonin actually increases REM sleep, which can increase vivid dreams as well.
5. Do a sleep test if you think you have a sleep disorder. Start with your personal doctor and tell them that you think you might have a sleep disorder. They can refer you to the right specialists to conduct a sleep test and find out what treatments would work best for you.^[17]
#*A lot of the basic principles of good sleep hygiene can help with sleep disorders as well, so make sure you're already doing all of those things.
   
6. Consult your doctor about your medications. If you've been prescribed a medication that you think is causing vivid dreams that are disturbing you, ask your doctor about it. They might be able to prescribe you something else that will treat your condition without this side effect.^[18]
   
   • Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you're taking, as well as any steps you've taken to try to prevent vivid dreams on your own.
7. Talk to a therapist. If your vivid dreams are caused by stress, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, talk therapy might be helpful. A therapist can also help you make sense of your dreams and the thoughts in your waking mind so that these become less frightening or troublesome for you.^[19]
   
   • If you're experiencing nightmare disorder, there are specific forms of cognitive behavioral therapy that can help.^[20]

[Edit]Tips

• Distinguish vivid dreams from lucid dreams. Lucid dreams occur when, while you're dreaming, you're aware that you're in a dream. Some lucid dreamers can even change what's happening in their dreams.^[21]

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vivid-dreams-explained
2. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vivid-dreams-explained
3. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
4. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
5. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nightmares
6. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
7. ↑ https://sleepdoctor.com/dreams/vivid-dreams/
8. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
9. ↑ https://sleepdoctor.com/dreams/vivid-dreams/
10. ↑ https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/public-education/brain-basics/brain-basics-understanding-sleep
11. ↑ [v161936_b01]. 2 September 2021.
12. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vivid-dreams-explained
13. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
14. ↑ https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/public-education/brain-basics/brain-basics-understanding-sleep
15. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24464-nightmare-disorder
16. ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/dreams/vivid-dreams
17. ↑ https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-disorder-treatments#
18. ↑ https://sleepdoctor.com/dreams/vivid-dreams/
19. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vivid-dreams-explained
20. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24464-nightmare-disorder
21. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-lucid-dreaming-and-how-to-do-it

How to Drive a Car

Learning how to drive is a lot easier than it looks. It looks intimidating from the passenger's seat, or in films, but once you get behind the wheel and gently put your foot on the pedal, the process becomes very intuitive. Learn to take things slow in the beginning and you'll be well on your way to mastering the basics. This article assumes you'll be driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission. If you're not driving an automatic, you'll need to read about the basics of driving stick-shift (manual transmission) instead, although the general process will still be similar.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Getting Comfortable with the Car's Controls

1. Adjust the seat so that your feet comfortably reach both pedals. You can adjust your seat forward and backward, as well as up and down. Some cars will have electronic controls (usually on the left side of the seat), while older cars will usually have a lever underneath the seat that lets you control the position of the seat. But you can usually tell the difference.^[1]
   
2. Familiarize yourself with the foot pedals. In an automatic car, the two-foot pedals control acceleration and braking, respectively. The rightmost pedal (which is usually smaller than the other pedal) is the accelerator, and pressing down on it makes the car move; the harder you press down on it, the faster the car will move. The pedal to the left, which is usually larger than the accelerator; is the brake pedal, and pressing down on it slows the car down.
   
   
   • Even if you feel more confident using your left foot, always use your right foot to reach both pedals. It will feel strange at first if you're left-footed, but getting used to it is very important because it's proper technique and ultimately much safer.
   • Never use both feet at once to reach the pedals. Only use one foot — your right foot — to use each pedal. This will make it impossible to accidentally press down on both pedals at the same time, which can be dangerous and can damage your car.
3. Adjust your car's mirrors so that you can see through them clearly and effectively. Your car should have three mirrors: one rear-view mirror, which allows you to see directly the rear windshield behind you, and two outside mirrors which let you see to either side of the car and protect you from blind spots.^[2]
   
   • Your rear-view mirror should be positioned so that when you're in your normal driving position, you can see directly behind you and as much of the rear windshield as possible.
   • The Society of Automotive Engineers has one recommendation for how to position your outside mirrors in order to eliminate blind spots. It recommends positioning the mirrors further outward than normal, so that they just overlap with the viewing angle of the rear-view mirror.^[3] Although disorienting at first, this positioning actually allows the driver to see cars in their blind spots which they might otherwise only be able to spot by looking over their shoulder.
4. Know where the parking brake (also called a handbrake, e-brake or emergency brake) is and what it does. The parking brake is a longer lever with a button on the very tip of it. When the parking brake is pulled up, it helps lock the car into place on the ground, ensuring that it doesn't move. When the brake is let down, it is disengaged and the car can freely move. Make sure that your parking brake is disengaged before you start driving.^[4]
   
5. Get a feel for the gear stick (also called shift lever, gear lever, shifter or simply, "the stick"). The gear stick is usually positioned in between the two front seats of a car, and it controls the gearbox (park, neutral, drive, reverse). Sometimes in certain vehicles, the shift lever is on the right side of the steering wheel.
   
   • If your gear stick is engaged in Park and you turn your ignition on, the car won't move forward no matter how hard you press down on the accelerator.
   • If your gear stick is in Neutral, your car's natural momentum will continue to move it forward.
   • If your gear stick is in Reverse, your car will move backward instead of forward when you take your foot off the brake.
   • If your gear stick is in Drive, your car will move forwards when you take your foot off the brake.
   • In most modern vehicles, the lever is either in a straight line on the right side of the driver or is a lever on the steering wheel. The "lever" may actually be a knob depending on your car. If you're stuck, read the owners manual when you have the time.
6. Understand the basic dashboard controls/symbols. These gauges display to the driver how much fuel the engine has left, how fast the car is going, how hot the engine is, and how many RPM (revolutions per minute) the engine is clocking.
   
   • The speedometer is probably the most important dashboard display in the car. It tells you how fast your car is traveling, in either miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (kph).
   • The RPM gauge tells you how hard your engine is working. Most RPM gauges will have red areas starting at 6,000 or 7,000 RPM. When the dial in the gauge, travels into the red, learn to ease off the acceleration.
   • The fuel gauge tells you how much fuel your car has left. It usually has a dial, like the hand of a clock that travels between "F" and "E," with "E" signaling "empty" and "F" signaling "full." Some more modern cars have digital fuel gauges; where electronic bars are displayed like the battery symbol on a mobile phone, and gradually decrease in quantity depending on how much fuel is in the car.
   • The temperature gauge in the car tells you whether your car's engine is overheating. It usually has a dial that travels between "H" and "C," signaling "hot" and "cold." Your dial should normally be in the center of the gauge.

[Edit]Getting the Basics Down

1. Put on your seatbelt. In most places in the world, driving without wearing a seatbelt is illegal. Seatbelts greatly reduce the possibility of serious injury or death if you happen to be involved in an accident.^[5]
   
   
2. Always start your car with your foot on the brake. When you turn it on, the car will move forward by itself if your foot isn't on the brake. With your foot on the brake in starting position, you're ready to start driving!
   
3. Turn on the engine and release the parking brake, if necessary. Put your keys in the ignition, which is usually to the right side of the steering wheel, and turn clockwise. Note that in some newer vehicles, provided the keys are actually inside the car, all you need to do is push the "Power" or "Ignition" button for the engine to start. Fancy!
   
   
4. Learn how to back your car out. If your car is parked in a car park or a driveway, chances are you're going to need to reverse your car out in order to begin driving. Although it may seem intimidating, there are only a couple of things for you to remember:
   
   
   • Put your car in Reverse and double-check. If your car isn't in Reverse, your car won't go backwards.
   • Look over your shoulder and turn your head to get a good view of where you're going.
   • Gently remove your foot from the brake pedal and do not put your foot on the accelerator. For your first couple of times backing out, don't worry about putting your foot on the accelerator. You can move your car simply by removing your foot from the brake. Your car will move slowly, but you won't risk accidentally running into something or someone.
   • Remember that the steering wheel is "reversed" in Reverse. When driving your car forward, if you turn the steering wheel to the right, your car will also turn to the right, and vice versa. This is because your wheels turn that way. When going in reverse, turning the steering wheel to the right will make your car turn to the left, while turning the steering wheel to the left will make your car turn to the right. Keep this in mind as you back your car out.
   • Use your brake whenever you need to slow down. Press your foot down gently but firmly on the brake pedal to slow the car down if necessary.
5. When you're ready to move your car forwards, come to a complete stop and put the car into "Drive". Put your foot on the brake pedal, shift your car into Drive so that it can begin to move forward, and then take your foot off the brake pedal. Slowly press down on the acceleration pedal with your foot to get the car to move forwards. Accelerate until you've reached the speed limit, and then take your foot off the accelerator, hovering it over the brake pedal in case you need to slow down.
   
   
6. Hold both hands on the steering wheel at the "9 and 3 o'clock" position. Imagine that the steering wheel is a clock. Place your left hand where the number 9 would be on a clock, and your right hand where the number 3 would be. Especially for beginners, do not try to hold the steering wheel with only one hand, because it is you are more likely to lose control of the car, which could cause an accident.^[6]
   
7. Use your blinkers (also called indicators or turn signals). Your blinkers are flashing orange or red lights (some cars have red lights as blinkers on either side of the rear of the car) next to the brake lights. They are really important when driving as they let other cars know that you're wanting to switch lanes or turn in a specific direction. The blinker switch is located on the left side of the steering wheel. Flick it up to indicate you want to turn right (for turning or switching lanes to the right), or flick it down to indicate you want to turn left (for turning or switching lanes to the left).
   
   
8. Learn how to turn the car using the hand over hand method. Turning is quite easy once you get used to it. Like most things when driving, it's very intuitive. If you only need to turn the car slightly, turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to travel but try keeping your hands at the 9 and 3 position.^[7]
   
   
   • If you're making a harder turn, use the "hand over hand" method. Say you're turning right. Turn the steering wheel clockwise, leading with the right hand. When your right hand gets to the 4 or 5 position, release it and cross it over your left hand. Re-grip the wheel and continue turning.
   • To straighten out the car after a turn, simply loosen your grip in both hands and the steering wheel will automatically begin correcting itself. Apply more pressure to slow down the correction; apply less pressure to speed it up. Your hands should stay stationary as the steering wheel moves back to its original spot.
9. Learn how to switch lanes. At some point when driving, you'll need to switch from one lane to another, sometimes quickly. Doing so is easy, but you have to remember to indicate to let other drivers know that you're planning on switching lanes. Here are some things to keep in mind whilst switching lanes:^[8]
   
   
   • Indicate with your blinkers for at least two seconds before beginning to switch lanes. This lets other drivers know what you are planning to do.
   • Quickly scan your mirrors and look over your shoulder to check for any cars in your blind spot(s). Don't just rely on your mirrors to tell you where other cars are; use your eyes to quickly look for yourself before actually switching lanes.
   • Slowly move the car into the other lane. Turn your hands on the steering wheel ever so slightly in order to change lanes. It only takes a very slight movement of the wheel; as most modern cars are fitted with power steering. It should take anywhere from one to three seconds for you to change lanes. Any less and you're doing it too quickly; any more and you're doing it too slowly.
10. Stay a healthy distance behind other cars, and avoid tailgating. How far you should stay behind the car in front of you depends on how fast you are traveling. You want to give yourself two to five seconds to react, depending on your comfort level. If the car in front of you were to abruptly come to a halt, at your current speed, would you have enough time to both react and calmly slow your car down without colliding into the car in front of you?^[9]
    
    • To judge this, watch as the car in front of you passes a fixed object on the road, like a billboard. As soon as the car passes that object, begin counting: one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand, three-one-thousand.... How many seconds does it take for your car to pass the same object on the road?

[Edit]Putting It All Together

1. Drive defensively. Driving defensively is a very important concept that too many drivers either take for granted or don't understand. Driving defensively will help save you money, ensure a pleasurable driving experience, and — most important —help you stay alive.^[10] Driving defensively is an umbrella term for several different concepts:^[11]
   
   • Don't assume that other road users will obey the rules, or pay attention, or be cautious. Rules of the road are enforced to make sure that everyone is safe. Often those rules are broken by selfish or clueless drivers. Don't assume that drivers will use their blinkers before they turn, for example. Don't assume that drivers will slow down for you to merge. Don't assume that drivers won't drive past red lights.
   • If you see a potentially dangerous situation, avoid it before it happens. Don't linger immediately to the right of a big semi-truck, for example. Don't try to pass a drunk driver who's swerving in and out of lanes.
   • Use all your senses to be aware, at all times, of what's happening on the road. Drivers often learn to tune out the rest of the world and "get in the zone," simply because they've done the same thing hundreds, if not thousands, of times. Don't get too complacent behind the wheel. Use sight to monitor other cars' speeds and their habits. Use hearing to listen for car horns and the sounds of screeching. Use smell to be aware of burnt rubber or other caustic aromas that may indicate an accident.
2. Stay in the right lanes for slower speeds and the left lanes for faster speeds. On highways, and to a lesser extent on streets, the leftmost lanes are usually reserved for faster traffic, while the rightmost lanes are reserved for slower traffic. It's rude (and dangerous) to tailgate someone going slower than you in the right lane. At the same time, it's selfish to hog the left lanes when you're going considerably slower than other traffic. Get in a lane that's going roughly your speed and stay there until you need to turn or leave the road.
   
   
3. Whenever possible, pass cars on the left side instead of the right side. Because the general speed of traffic increases going right to left, it's important to pass on the left. You're speeding your car up and going faster than the car ahead of you, so you want to pass using a lane that's meant for faster cars. Follow this general rule of thumb even if it's not a "law" where you drive! Remember: drive right, pass left.^[12]
   
   
   • Try to never pass a truck on the right. Trucks and semis are far larger than normal cars, meaning that their blind spots are far bigger. Trucks often stay in the rightmost lanes and switch lanes to the right, rarely switching lanes to the left. Passing trucks on the left, therefore, means you're driving your car out of their territory, lowering your risk.
4. Abide by the speed limits. Speed limits are there for a reason. They're not there to make driving less fun; they're there to make the road a safer place for all. Make sure that at most, you're only traveling 5 mph (8 km/h) faster than the speed limit. At least in America, police officers will rarely write a ticket for speeding if you're only traveling 5 mph (8 km/h) above the speed limit.^[13]
   
5. Be extremely careful in abnormal driving conditions. When the weather acts up, tone it down a notch and drive even more defensively than normal. When it rains, for example, the water interacts with the oil on driving surfaces, making it very slick and slippery. In these conditions, it's hard for your tires to get good traction.^[14] In heavy rain, when small pools of water have accumulated on asphalt, you're especially at risk of hydroplaning.
   
   
   • Winter creates more difficult driving situations; with colder temperatures as well as icy and snowy surfaces.
6. Be courteous on the road. Being courteous simply means acknowledging that there are other people using the road, each with his or her own agenda, and many of whom don't want to be stuck in their car. Make their life on the road a little easier if it's easy for you; the thought is that they'll pay it forward at some point, and you may be the beneficiary of their largesse.
   
   • Use your horn to alert other drivers, not to chide them. The horn is a powerful device. Use your horn when someone merges into your lane without seeing you, or when a light has turned green but they're still sitting idle. Don't use your horn because you're stuck in a traffic jam to express your frustration.
   • Use a wave to thank someone. When someone lets you into their lane, wave your hand to thank them. It doesn't take much effort, and it's a nice acknowledgment of "thanks" for keeping you in mind.
   • Don't disobey the rules of the road just in order to be courteous. This is important. If you stop at a four-way stop and you get there first, you're the one who gets to go first. Don't stop and let the person who got there after you go. It holds up efficiency and often creates confusion.
7. Have fun. Driving can be dangerous, and there sure are a lot of rules that you need to remember, but it's important to have fun while you're behind the wheel. Even while staying responsible, driving can be incredibly exhilarating. Just remember that the road doesn't belong to you alone and you should be fine.
   

[Edit]Mastering Advanced Driving Techniques

1. Learn how to parallel park. Parallel parking is when you have to back your car into a tight parking spot, usually a very complex maneuver. There are a couple of tried and true tricks to parallel parking, which you can learn here. A very important part of urban driving.^[15]
   
   
2. Learn how to merge in heavy traffic. Merging onto a highway can be a difficult thing to do, especially if the traffic is denser than expected. The important thing to do here is to accelerate enough and judge whether you're going fast enough to fit safely between two cars.
   
   
3. Use a roundabout. They may not be popular in America, but if you've ever driven outside the U.S., you'll know that they can be quite tricky. Often used instead of stop signs, roundabouts are efficient but need to be understood before conquered.^[16]
   
   
4. Learn how to drive uphill. Driving uphill can be a challenge, particularly if you're driving a manual car.^[17] Master the art of downshifting when going up a steep hill.
   
5. Save gas. With the rising cost of fuel, driving smart means more than just avoiding accidents. Those drivers who can save fuel while they drive ultimately have more money to spend on car accessories.^[18]
   

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Reader Videos

[Edit]Tips

• Wear your seat belt. This is the easiest way to be safe in a car, and it's illegal in many countries not to wear one.
• When driving bigger cars, make sure you are clear of the road ahead before overtaking.
• Be sure to slow down before making turns.
• When you park your car and before you exit the vehicle, be sure to turn off the lights, engage the handbrake, lock the doors, and remember where you parked.
• Don't drive faster than what you're comfortable with.
• If you are a new driver, always ride with an experienced driver until you are confident enough to drive independently.
• Always follow safe driving practices. Don't drive recklessly fast, accelerate suddenly or brake unexpectedly. And, don't weave in between vehicles on the highway - it is very dangerous, and can cause highly damaging collisions.
• Service your car within the mileage or age ranges recommended by your manufacturer or dealer.
• Hire a certified, experienced driving instructor if you're nervous and/or inexperienced.
• Stay in your own comfort zone. If it has been snowing and the roads are covered in ice, drive as slow as you need to in the highest possible gear (if driving a manual), to improve control of the vehicle, and ignore other motorists who get impatient and start tooting their horns.
• Stay safe, and don't use your mobile phone whilst driving. In some countries, this is illegal and you can even lose your license, as well as be fined a lot of money. The penalty is 6 points on your license and a £200 fine in the UK, meaning if you passed your driving test less than 2 years ago; you'll be banned from driving.
• Don't wear bulky shoes with big soles, they might get in the way when pressing the brakes during an emergency.
• Keep enough room between your car and the vehicle in front so there is enough room to come to a full stop should the car in front decide to stop suddenly. Tailgating is dangerous.
• If you are just learning to drive, or if you don't feel confident driving by yourself, it might be a good idea to get a parent or an older friend who can accompany you when you're driving.
• Maintain your car regularly. Check the oil level, wheel alignment, headlights, brake fluid and tire pressure. If something looks damaged, worn or needs fixing; then get it sorted before it leads to a more serious problem.
• If you are making an emergency stop in a car equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), press the brake as hard as you can. ABS makes a car's brake pump more rapidly than your foot can. This stops the car while still offering you control over the direction. Do not "pump" the brake nor loosen the force. While ABS is active, you may feel vibrations through the brake pedal - this is normal. Just continue pressing the brake until your car stops.
• Study the driving guide from your state.
• Install a dashcam in your car if you don't have one, your insurance company will thank you and you will have footage of anything that happens while your driving, video evidence is crucial in accident investigations, even if you were not involved, additionally watching and sharing footage of your driving can help make you a better driver.
• Practice good habits (e.g. turning your head to check your blind spot) instead of bad ones (e.g. driving with one hand on the steering wheel, crossing your hands when steering).
• When you're starting out, driving a car can be scary at times, but with practice and other techniques, you can overcome a fear of driving.
• Put away all distracting items (such as cell phones, earphones, snacks, etc.) before you even turn the engine on.

[Edit]Warnings

• This article can only guide you on your way to driving so don't depend on it as your only source.
• Always indicate before turning, and use dipped headlights when there is an approaching vehicle or when there is a vehicle ahead of you.
• While changing lanes, be observant. Check all mirrors, put on your indicator and swiftly change.
• Make sure you're in the correct lane when driving.
• Keep on the slow lane (left or right for left- or right-handed driving countries respectively), unless you overtake. After overtaking, return to the slow lane.
• Be aware of any limitations of provisional licenses, for example in the UK; you cannot drive on a motorway without a full license.
• Always wear your seat belt and ensure any other passengers do so.
• Avoid parking illegally, your car may be towed, or you may be cited and have to pay a fine.
• Make sure you practice uphill starts when learning to drive a manual car. Because starting a manual from a stop requires letting off the brakes and engaging the clutch (essentially placing the car in neutral), the car will roll backward until first gear is engaged. To stop this from happening, apply the handbrake, then release it as you release the clutch and the car begins to move forward. Otherwise, you risk rolling into the car behind you. Practice this technique on a sloped driveway or car park where it's safer to make mistakes.
• Street racing is extremely dangerous, and illegal in most countries. If you wish to race your car, then taking your car to a track day would be the safest thing to do. These are usually well supervised.
• Always follow the rules of the road for your state or country. Make sure you know all the rules before starting to drive, or else you or your car might be badly damaged.
• In some cities, shifting late (just before red-lining) not only makes you sound like a maniac, it can also be considered "reckless driving", which is illegal and can get you a nasty ticket/fine.
• Avoid the temptation to use your mobile phone, a few seconds distraction can cause a serious accident, so the best way to do it is to turn off your cell phone until you get to your destination. Better yet, park your car in a safe location when there is a need to answer a phone call.
• This is by no means a replacement to going to driver's ed.
• Some vehicles come with built-in safety features (besides airbags). Do not rely on safety and comfort features to work while driving. This technology can easily malfunction (i.e. the brakes may apply unexpectedly or the car does not brake at all), and is not a replacement for attentive driving.
• This article is aimed at American readers. Road rules are different in every country.
• In Israel, you're required to carry fluorescent vests in the car and wear them when you are outside the car when making repairs or refueling etc. If you get stopped in Israel and your car does not carry a fluorescent vest, you WILL be fined. In France, you must wear one when driving at night, and also if you need to repair a puncture/bulb on a motorway.
• Always enforce that people who are passengers in your car must wear seatbelts. If they refuse, don't drive them. You're better off creating an awkward situation than to be held liable for a bodily injury they sustain if you're in an accident.
• NEVER drink and drive. That's the worst thing you could possibly do. You could kill yourself or someone else. It is also illegal to drive with more than a certain amount of alcohol in your body e.g. in the UK you must not drive with a breath alcohol level of more than 35 micrograms per or a blood alcohol level of more than 80 milligrams per . This is roughly the equivalent to 2 cans of strong lager. In the US you may not have a BAC (blood alcohol content) of more than 0.08% if you are a non-commercial driver 21 and up. Restrictions are tighter on commercial drivers and drivers under 21. If you are going to drink this much alcohol, arrange another means of transport.
• Drivers need to be licensed. Driving without a license or with a suspended one can get you arrested, cited, and/or towed and can potentially ruin your record.
• Never shift into low gears at high speeds (i.e. 1st gear at 50 mph/80 km/h). This will greatly damage or destroy your car's engine and transmission and can even cause you to lose control.
• ALWAYS wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts reduce risk of injury and death by a wide margin, and in many US states, you can be fined for not wearing a seatbelt.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Drive Manual
• Be a Better Driver
• Avoid Annoying Other Drivers
• Teach Your Kid to Drive
• Get Your Driving Permit

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts
2. ↑ [v161212_b01]. 4 December 2019.
3. ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/older-driver/safety-tips-about-your-vehicle
4. ↑ https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/driving-test-criteria/pre-drive-checklist-safety-criteria/
5. ↑ https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts
6. ↑ https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/steeringtechniques.pdf
7. ↑ https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/steeringtechniques.pdf
8. ↑ https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-ministry-transportation-mto-motorcycle-handbook/lane-change
9. ↑ https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/roads-safety-and-rules/safe-driving/safe-stopping-distance
10. ↑ [v161212_b01]. 4 December 2019.
11. ↑ https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/recreational-vehicles-and-trailers-handbook-2011/defensive-driving-techniques-for-all-drivers/
12. ↑ https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook/changing-positions
13. ↑ [v161212_b01]. 4 December 2019.
14. ↑ https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook/driving-night-and-bad-weather
15. ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/about-dmv/chapter-7-parallel-parking
16. ↑ https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/traffic-safety-methods/roundabouts
17. ↑ https://drive.govt.nz/restricted-licence/skills/parking-turning-around-and-hills/hill-driving-manual/
18. ↑ https://afdc.energy.gov/conserve/behavior_techniques.html