SAFE DRIVING TIPS

Don’t drink and drive.

One of the easiest ways to be safe on the road is to have a clear head. If you’re going to drink, have someone else take control of the driving.

Be well-rested.

Any kind of impaired driving can possibly lead to an accident so it’s best to prepare yourself beforehand.

Look both ways.

Whether you’re on foot or behind the wheel, it’s important to look out for other cars or pedestrians. Being attentive can be the difference between a near-miss and a total wreck.

Don’t run on “Empty.”

Running out of gas is a simple and common problem. In more rural areas or places you’re unfamiliar with, being low on gas is not a risk you want to take.

Back up.

Don’t follow so closely, and leave a two-second gap in case the car in front of you slams on their brakes. Tailgating is best when it happens at a stadium, not on the highways.

Know your surface.

Some roads are better for driving than others. Asphalt will typically be a smoother, quieter ride.

Make yourself visible.

Wear bright colors during the daytime, and reflective materials (like a vest) at night so that you can’t be missed.

Don’t let a good conversation be distracting.

If you’re walking and talking, it’s easy to forget about where you are and step into the street. Be mindful of your surroundings.

Think of the little ones.

If you’re traveling with kids who are too small to sit in their own adult-sized seat, make sure that they’re buckled and secure in their baby and child seats.

Slow down.

Speeding is one of the most common causes for fatal collisions. Slowing down could save a life and also save you some gas. You’ll get better mileage by going at an average speed.

Take a deep breath and move on.

Road rage is real and has led to numerous assaults, and even murders.

Use the crosswalk.

Using a crosswalk alerts drivers and cyclists that you’re going to be in the road.

Use your lights.

If the area you’re driving in is covered with a heavy fog, or it’s snowing or raining, turn on your fog-lights to alert the other drivers that you’re on the road.

Be consistent.

Don’t switch lanes randomly or stop suddenly. Surprising people while driving can lead to a collision.

Take extra caution on dangerous roads

When a road has intense curves or steep drop offs, it’s best to be slow and steady.

Look ahead.

Look past the car in front of you to anticipate if you need to slow down or switch lanes; this will help you avoid potholes, traffic buildups, and debris.

Use your mirrors.

Before changing lanes or backing out of a parking spot, you need to see what’s happening around you. Your rear-view and side mirrors will help you avoid hitting anything.

Watch for children.

When driving in areas where there will be high numbers of children (parks, schools, near school buses, etc.) be extra mindful to drive slowly. It also helps to pay attention to the roads.

Go against the traffic.

If you’re out for a jog, you want to go in the direction opposite the traffic; this way, drivers will be able to see you coming and not react with surprise.

Use your turn signals.

When you’re ready to make a turn off the straightaway, use your indicator to let the other drivers know which way you’re going.

Don’t run that light.

If a light is yellow, go ahead and slow to a stop. It might seem like you have time, but really, trying to run a red light will gain you anything from a ticket to getting hit by another car.

Change with the weather.

Generally, this means slowing down because of how slick roads become when it rains. Don’t use your cruise control, and stay away from the other cars in case you hydroplane.

Yield.

When merging, or perhaps you don’t know who has the right of way, slow to a stop to let the other car go by.

Focus.

We all like to multitask, but when you’re driving is not the time to be writing your boss an email.

Everyone thinks they’re a great driver.

Don’t rely on anyone else to brake, signal, or consider your car. Be responsible for yourself.