It’s no secret that driving can be dangerous. Every year, there are thousands of car accidents that result in fatalities or serious injuries. To help reduce your risk of being involved in an accident, we’ve put together a list of safety tips that you should remember while behind the wheel. Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to driving safely.
Don’t Drive While Distracted
It’s no secret that distracted driving is a major problem on our roads. Distracted driving is responsible for more than three thousand deaths each year. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the dangers of distractions and take steps to avoid them while behind the wheel.
Some common distractions include: talking on the phone, texting, using a GPS or other navigation system, eating or drinking, and adjusting the radio or CD player. If you’re driving on freeways in Los Angeles you may also be distracted by the sights and sounds of the city. No matter what the distraction is, it can take your focus away from the road and increase your risk of getting in a crash. Put your phone away while driving. Don’t answer calls or text messages, and let voice mail pick up if someone tries to call you. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe spot first. Keep your eyes on the road at all times. Avoid looking at anything else but the road ahead, including GPS screens and other drivers.
Always Wear Your Seat Belt
Wearing your seat belt is one of the most important safety tips you can follow while driving. According to the NHTSA, seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45 percent. They are also effective in preventing serious injuries in crashes.
Make sure to buckle up every time you get into a car, even if you’re just traveling a short distance. And don’t forget to buckle up your passengers too – it’s the law in most states. If you or someone you know isn’t wearing their seat belt, remind them of the importance of doing so. It could save their life.
Follow the Speed Limit
It’s important to follow the speed limit when driving, as doing so can help you avoid accidents. The faster you’re going, the longer it takes to stop your car, and the more likely you are to cause a serious accident if you do have to brake suddenly. So be sure to stay within the posted speed limit while on the road. You may even want to go a bit slower in bad weather or during busy times of the day. By following the speed limit, you’ll keep yourself and everyone around you safe on the roads.
Use Your Turn Signals
When changing lanes, turning, or even slowing down, use your turn signals. This lets other drivers know what you are doing so they can anticipate your movements and avoid accidents. It also ensures that you will not be pulled over for a traffic violation.
If your car does not have signal lights, you can still use hand signals to indicate turns. Be sure to check the mirrors and make sure it is safe to do so before signaling. Remember: left arm straight out for a left turn, bent at the elbow for a right turn. And always use caution when making any type of hand signal, as they may not be visible from all angles.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of what is happening around you. Keep your eyes open for potential hazards and take steps to avoid them. Remember, safety is always your top priority when driving. Pay attention to the road conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. If it’s raining or snowing, take it slow and use caution. If the roads are icy, stay off them altogether if possible. Take care when changing lanes and watch out for other cars that may not be paying attention.
Drive Defensively
When you’re driving, always be aware of your surroundings. Here are six tips to help keep you safe on the road. Keep a safe distance from other cars, be aware of your speed, and use turn signals. Always check your mirrors and keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists. If you see a hazard on the road, avoid it if possible. And finally, always stay calm and focused while driving. Be prepared to stop abruptly, and don’t get distracted by your phone or other passengers.
Before hitting the road, double-check your car’s condition. Make sure all of your tires are properly inflated and that your oil is changed regularly. If anything goes wrong while you’re driving, learn how to handle it safely.
When it comes to staying safe while driving, following these tips will help keep you and those around you safe on the road. Be sure to always pay attention to your surroundings and obey all traffic laws. If you are ever in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Stay safe out there!
