If you’re been reading about Max Mosley in the news lately, you may have car racing and, unfortunately, car crashes on your mind. Sure, professional race car drivers take their lives into their hands every day, but what about the rest of the world? You can still exercise caution when driving, even if your speed isn’t exceeding 60 mph.
1. Don’t go over the speed limit. For each mile per hour you drive, your odds of being in a car accident increase by up to five percent.
2. Avoid distractions, like cell phones. Even with the cell phone ban that many states have, people still find ways to use their phone when behind the wheel. Every year, 2,600 deaths are due to distracted driving.
3. Don’t drive drunk. As obvious as this tip may sound, alcohol impairment is still responsible for 30% of all U.S. car accident fatalities.
4. Never drive when you’re exhausted. According to a Virginia Tech study, 20% of car accidents have a contributing factor of sleepiness.
5. Always wear your seat belt. Yes, it may leave marks if you get into a car accident, but at the same time it will keep you from being thrown around in the vehicle or going through the windshield.
6. Exercise extra caution when the weather is bad. Fog, rain, ice, and snow can make it difficult to see where you’re going, spot other cars, and come to a stop. Drive under the speed limit and leave plenty of space between you and other cars.
7. Never follow another car too closely, even if the weather is perfect. If the car in front of you suddenly turns or stops, you need enough time and distance to react accordingly. Apply the three second rule. Find a stationary object on the side of the road. When the car in front of you passes it, it should take you another three seconds to pass it.
8. Keep an eye on other cars. it’s not always your actions that can cause a problem; sometimes, other drivers are the issue. Always be prepared for other drivers to make mistakes, like quick lane changes without using a signal or tailgating.
9. Maintain your vehicle. Not only will it extend the life of your car, but it will also prevent tire blowouts and brake issues from causing an accident.
Cars and roads are getting safer, but it’s still important to know how to act behind the wheel.
So follow the Driving tips.
