Let’s start the new year not only changing our personal habits, but how about our driving habits?
I don’t know about you, but bad habits, or laziness sort of creeps on us. If you see yourself not doing any of these(I was guilty of a few), then make a change today.
KEEP THE PHONE AWAY
Texting or talking on your phone(we think it is multi-tasking!!) does lead to countless road accidents. From research, listening reduces the amount of brain activity associated with driving by 37%. Don’t be distracted.
STICK TO THE SPEED LIMIT
Stick to the speed limit, it safer and cheaper. It certain spots you can be fined heavily for going over the speed limit.
SAFE FOLLOWING DISTANCE
I think when we are rushing we tend to crowd the car in front of us. Leaving a 2-3 second gap between you and the driver in front of you, can keep us from rear-ending that driver, if they stop suddenly.
TURN ON YOUR HEADLIGHTS WHEN NEEDED
When visibility is poor: when it rains, between sunset and sunrise or whenever visibility is not clear 150 meters ahead of you. Turn your headlights on, so the other drivers can see you, and maybe they will turn their lights on too.
CHECK TIRES, OIL AND WATER
Checking your tires pressure, oil and water levels when you fill up at the gas stations, is a great preventive maintenance.
DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE
Not only do you risk getting caught, but you put your life, the lives of your passengers and those people in the other car in danger of physical hurt or worse death. Safe drivers opt for a cab or Uber home instead. Saves you from losing your license and lots of $$$ in fines.
BE ALERT AND AWARE
When you are tired and/or distracted you are less likely to be able to react to the unexpected.
TURN DOWN THE MUSIC
Loud music can decrease a driver’s ability to react to any sudden or unexpected movements or happenings on the road.
WEAR YOUR SEATBELT
It’s the law. Wearing a seatbelt is the simplest way to save your life and a good driver insists that everyone driving with them does the same. No brainer!!
USING YOUR BLINKERS AND WATCH FOR BLINDSPOTS
Use your blinker, keeps the drivers in front and behind aware, especially if you are changing lanes. Always check your mirrors, but before turning do a quick shoulder check, physically turn and look to make sure there isn’t a car in your blind spot.