Tip 1
Check Your Tires
Check your tire pressure every time you get gas (The manufacturer’s recommended pressure should be posted inside the door of your car or in your owner’s manual).
While you’re checking your tire pressure, also check your tires for spot cracks, bulging, worn spots, or shallow tread. Keep in mind, properly inflated tires are not only safer, they also improve your gas mileage!
Tip 2
Keep Your Distance
Drivers should always allow a minimum 2-4 second following distance from the vehicle traveling ahead of them. Increase this distance even more at night, at higher speeds and when driving during adverse conditions such as rain, snow, heavy wind or fog. This will allow drivers to “have an out” to escape should traffic conditions suddenly change ahead of you.
Tip 3
Take A “Brake”
Get to know your vehicles braking system. There are several types and each one operates very differently. For example, in heavy braking scenarios, standard brakes will lock up the tires, while Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) will allow the tires to continue turning. To optimize your braking, know your brakes!
Tip 4
Chill Out
Avoid enraged drivers by backing off, changing directions and if you feel threatened, by calling 9-1-1. Don’t provoke them or speed to get away from them, and certainly don’t pull over to confront them!
Another part of avoiding enraged drivers is to avoid becoming one yourself. Keep your emotions in check, and avoid frustrations by planning ahead and allowing enough time to reach your destination.
Tip 5
Avoid Distractions
One in four crashes involve driver distraction. The most common distractions are talking on cell phones, adjusting the radio (including CD’s and mp3 players), and eating while driving. Avoid these distractions and you’ll more easily avoid an accident!
Tip 6
Mind The Blind Spots
Be aware of the blind spots on your vehicle and check them frequently. Also, avoid driving in other vehicles blind spots, especially when driving around large trucks or busses. Remember that these trucks make large right turns, and if you can’t see the driver in a truck’s rear view mirrors, they cannot see you!
Tip 7
Buckle Up
When used properly, safety belts reduce the risk of injury or death by 50%. Make sure everyone in your car is wearing one, especially yourself, before you put the car in gear.
Tip 8
Railroad Crossings
In a collision with a train, you are 40 times more likely to be killed than if you were in a collision with another car. Always reduce your speed when approaching crossings and look both ways, you can even listen to hear if a train is coming. If the gates are down and the lights are flashing, STOP, but never on the tracks. Most importantly, be sure all tracks are clear before crossing – there may be more than one set of tracks.
Tip 9
Share The Road
Always be on the lookout for motorcycles on the roadway, especially at intersections. Never tailgate a motorcycle or pull out in front of one. Motorcyclists can be easily overlooked and are often traveling faster than they appear. If you’re passing them, allow plenty of room. Also, Watch for riders who may need to maneuver around potholes and debris.
Tip 10
Be Aware
The more aware you are of what’s going on around you, the better driver you will be. Look in all directions before proceeding through a light. Notice all vehicles and ensure that someone else is not going to run the light. Keep your eyes moving. Notice what is happening on the sides of the road and check your mirrors every 6-8 seconds.