Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

What’s an example of risk while driving?

I’ve been studying for my driver’s test, and I just started learning about common risks. I feel like these lessons are really important to know well. What are the risks of driving?

avatar
Michelle Ballestrasse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Risk is a broad category when we’re talking about driving—and for good reason. There’s a lot that can go wrong and a lot that a good driver has to be aware of. While some examples of risks while driving are obvious—like pedestrians and accidents—others are not, so let’s discuss several of the most common.
There are two different categories of risks that should be considered, which we’ve outlined below, along with some examples. But basically, any action that takes your attention away from driving is a risky behavior that
should be avoided
behind the wheel.
Immediate risk: These are risks that you can literally see and require immediate action to avoid.
  • A pedestrian darting onto the road
  • A crash or disabled car on the freeway
  • A vehicle driving too slowly on the freeway or too quickly approaching an intersection
  • An inebriated driver weaving through traffic
  • Potential risk: These are risks that you should assume come with the territory. Remain alert to avoid an incident.
  • Residential areas have more likelihood of children and distracted pedestrians
  • Rural highways with heavy wildlife populations
  • Dark country roads with few street lights and plenty of winding turns
  • Any road after a severe storm or natural event that results in standing water, ice, and/or debris
In addition, there are also risky behaviors that you, the driver, may commit either consciously or unconsciously while driving. That includes:
  • Texting or calling
  • Dozing off
  • Eating or drinking
  • Applying makeup
There’s no such thing as driving without risk, so diligence is key. Not only does it protect you and others around you, safe drivers typically spend less on their
car insurance
.
And with
Jerry
, you can save even more. Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that can collect quotes from over 50 top-rated car insurance companies in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 per year.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings