How To Remain Visible In Traffic When Driving A Small Vehicle

A brightly colored small car (like yellow or red) in traffic
Driving a small car can be a great way to save money on fuel and be more environmentally friendly. However, small cars can also be more difficult to see on the road. In this post, we show you 8 ways to remain visible in heavy traffic.

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To help ensure your safety while driving a small car, it’s essential to take steps to remain visible in traffic.

Here are a few tips on how to remain visible when driving a small car:

1. Choose a bright color

A bright green Smart car parked in a parking lot.
Bright colors are easier to see on the road.

When purchasing a small car, consider choosing one that is brightly colored. Bright colors, such as yellow or red, are easier to see on the road and can help other drivers spot you more easily. Ever wondered why McDonalds uses yellow and red as their colors? It’s because these colors are highly-visible and stand out from everything around them.

2. Use your lights

Your car’s lights are crucial to your visibility on the road. Make sure you have working headlights, tail lights, and turn signals, and use them appropriately. For example, when you’re driving in foggy conditions, use your low beams to increase your visibility. When you’re approaching an intersection, use your turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers.

A car driving in on a roach with its headlights on in drizzly, low-visibility conditions.
When you're driving in foggy conditions, use your low beams to increase your visibility.

3. Stay in the correct lane position

A multi-lane highway from above with cars driving in their lanes.
Always try to stay in the center of the lane when you're driving.

Always try to stay in the center of the lane when you’re driving. This will help you be more visible to other drivers and reduce the chances of getting hit by another vehicle. If you need to change lanes, make sure you signal your intention and look over your shoulder to ensure it’s safe to do so.

4. Avoid driving in a driver's blind spot

One of the most dangerous situations you can encounter while driving a small car is when you’re driving in another driver’s blind spot. To avoid this, make sure you’re visible by positioning yourself where the driver can see you. If you can’t see the driver in the rear-view mirror, chances are the other driver can’t see you either.

Looking out front driver's side window of a car driving while driving in the blind spot of a large truck in the right lane.
If you can't see the driver in the rearview mirror, chances are the driver can't see you either.

5. Keep your distance

Another important factor in remaining visible in traffic is to keep a safe distance from other vehicles. When you are driving, you need to have enough space to react to other drivers’ actions–like sudden stops.  Make sure you are at least a few seconds behind the vehicle in front of you, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions. You can check this by picking a marker at the side of the road and counting in thousands between when the vehicle in front passes it–one thousand and one, one thousand and two, etc.–and when you do.

Looking out the front window of a car driving on a highway in low light.
Make sure you're at least a few seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.

6. Avoid cutting in front of other vehicles

Cutting in front of other vehicles can be dangerous, especially if you’re driving a small car. To avoid this, make sure you signal your intention to change lanes and give other drivers enough time to react. Additionally, avoid tailgating other vehicles, as this can make it more difficult for them to see you.

7. Use your horn

Car steering wheel prominently displaying the horn.
A quick honk can help draw attention.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to alert another driver to your presence, use your horn. A quick honk can help draw their attention and avoid a potential collision.

8. Stay alert

A person driving a car with both hands on the steering wheel focused on the road ahead.

Finally, the most important thing you can do to remain visible in traffic is to stay alert. Make sure you’re aware of what’s happening around you and anticipate other drivers’ actions. Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while driving, and keep your attention focused on the road ahead.

Remaining visible in traffic is essential to your safety while driving a small car. By following these tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can help reduce the chances of being involved in a collision and stay safe on the road. Remember to always use your lights and signals appropriately, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and stay alert. Stay visible, stay safe, and enjoy the drive!

Photo Credits: Erik Mclean, KoolShooters, Mike Bird, Spencer Davis, Athena, Markus Spiske, Jonathan Schmer, Luis Zambrano, Norma Mortenson

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