Safe Driving Tips
Safe Driving Tips
With the holidays approaching and so many people on the road, often in adverse weather conditions, we put together a list of safe driving tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.
- Per the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, you should not leave your car in cruise control when driving when you are tired or late at night. If you fall asleep your car could crash at the speed set on the car’s cruise control
- If you are in an accident or your car isn’t operating properly, pull off the road. If you are on a busy highway, stay inside the car and wait for the police or an ambulance. It’s dangerous for passengers to be standing on a busy road or highway.
- Deer mating season is October through December and deer are most active during dawn and dusk. Ensure that you and your passengers are wearing seatbelts at all times in case of sudden stops or swerves to avoid a deer. Use high beams when possible on dark unlit roads to help spot deer.
- There are three main types of distracted driving: Visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking hands off the wheel) and cognitive (taking your mind off what you’re doing.)
- Avoid using your cell phone while driving. U.S. News and World Report covered a recent study by the National Safety Council. The study, conducted in partnership with Nationwide, shows that cell-phone-related car crashes are drastically under-reported, and that as many as 1 in 4 car crashes involve cell phone distraction.
- Do NOT text and drive. It can wait! Many highways are adding text stops or use a rest stop to check your messages. You are endangering yourself and others if you text and drive.
- Keep your belongings safe – put items such as suitcases and bags in the trunk. When stopping for a meal or overnight this will deter thieves from breaking into your car.
- How to prevent a car fire. Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you spot leaks, your car is not running properly, get it checked. A well-maintained car is less likely to have a fire.
- What to do if your car is on fire – pull over as quickly as possible, turn OFF the engine, have everyone exit the vehicle and move at minimum 100 feet from the car. Do NOT go back to the car for anything you forgot.
- Drinking and driving is a major factor in many car accidents. The National Safety Council reports that about every 30 minutes someone is killed in an alcohol-related crash in the United States. Every two minutes, someone is injured. Have a designated driver or use local car services or public transportation.
We hope these safe driving tips are helpful to you. Remember to have your car serviced prior to a long trip, this will ensure your car is up to date on maintenance and has been checked for any issues. Stay safe and happy driving!
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