Up to 50 percent of all motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. are due to driver distraction. You’ll want to pay attention to keep out of trouble on the road.
A concern for their vehicle safety is one of the signs of an excellent driver. Here are some ideas to help you keep your vehicle safe.
1. Follow a Maintenance Routine
Regular maintenance is part of your car safety routine. Check that your signal and brake lights are working to allow you to signal your actions to other drivers.
Have your mechanic check your tire pressure and ensure that your brakes work. It’s important to be able to count on your vehicle if you get into a tight situation on the road. This simple routine can prevent a car accident.
2. Keep Your Distance
Following too close is a bad driving habit that doesn’t allow you enough reaction time. Traffic speeds can change due to road conditions or obstacles on the road.
One of the most important driving tips is using the three-second rule when driving in good conditions. Pick a marker, and when the car in front of you passes it, count to three.
If you reach the marker before then, leave more room. When roads are wet or slippery, leave a larger following distance between vehicles.
3. Be Fit to Drive
You wouldn’t drive a car that wasn’t roadworthy. You must be ready and capable of operating a vehicle before you get behind the wheel.
One safety tip is to be sure you aren’t too tired, especially if you have to drive a long distance. It’s easy to become mesmerized and fall asleep at the wheel.
Never drive if you’ve been drinking or doing drugs. You may think you’re a safe driver, but you are not.
4. Signal Your Intentions
Driving in traffic is an exercise in trust. You are trusting that the other drivers will follow the rules of the road. You also believe they will indicate their moves before they take action. If a problem occurs, find lawyers who help with auto claims.
Be a predictable driver so others can anticipate your actions. Use your signals in advance whenever you turn or make a lane change. Never drive erratically, switch lanes abruptly, or change your speed without reason.
5. Use Your Mirrors as Eyes
Keep your eyes in motion as you drive to ensure that you know the location of other cars around you. Look for drivers approaching at high speeds and predict what they will do next.
Every vehicle has one or two blind spots. Know where yours are, and be sure to watch them. Check your mirrors often, as they are an extra set of eyes.
Focus on Vehicle Safety
When you understand the importance of vehicle safety, you’ll take steps to ensure you’re not the one at fault if there’s an accident. You can be more comfortable behind the wheel when you know you’ve done everything to keep your passengers safe.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, be sure to use the simple search feature to find other ways to stay safe on the road.
