March is National Collision Awareness Month, and Shawn Tucker from AutoTrader.com
shared this safety announcement. Whether traveling for the spring
break holiday, or driving around town, here are a few safe driving
tips:
Avoid Multi-Tasking -
The cell phone has been the most recent target of blame, but any
distraction is a hazard to you and to others. Some examples you could
try to eliminate or reduce are: reading, eating, hair / make-up,
television, adjusting music, rubber-necking, text messaging, and of
course, cell phones. If you must talk on the phone use a hands-free
device so you can still keep two hands on the wheel.
Enjoy the View
- Also known as rubbernecking, braking to look at an accident or
something on the side of the road is dangerous and distracts you
distracted from keeping your eyes on the cars in front of you. If
something is worth taking a good look at, go ahead and stop on the side
of the road.
Keep It Clean - One of the best ways to
feel good about your car, and sometimes yourself, is to have a clean
car. It not only provides a good personal image but, by keeping that
empty bottle of soda from rolling under your brake pedal, it also
improves your safety.
Be (more) Courteous
- Find opportunities to make driving a better experience for everyone.
Yielding rather than speeding to cut someone off, or letting a car over
that has their blinker on, can help make the commute easier and may
prevent them from driving defensively.
Lights On (in the daytime)
- Research shows that driving with your headlights on during the day
can substantially reduce accidents because it greatly improves your
visibility to pedestrians and other drivers. If your vehicle does not
come equipped with daytime running lights, get into the habit of
turning them on and off, it can be as natural has putting on and taking
off your seatbelt.
Don't Drive Impaired - A
little preparation can eliminate a world of trouble. Designated
drivers, taxis, walking, public transportation, or having someone drop
you off and pick you up are just a few of the safer options.
Remember (and use) the Basics -
You may not feel the need to keep your hands at 9 and 3 o'clock*, but
there are some no-brainers you should always follow to ensure you are
safe and in control: seat belts for everyone, mirrors adjusted, proper
seat and steering wheel position, safe driving speed, and proper
signaling. (* Yes, it used to be 10 and 2 o'clock. New studies
show that when driving cars with airbags, it may be safer to move your
hands down a little.)
Take Care of Your Car -
Checking the tread and air pressure in your tires, good brakes, clean
windows, headlights, and taillights are all important not only for
getting there, but getting there safely.
