When it comes to safety on the roads we can never hear too many warnings. Traffic accidents occur every few seconds somewhere in this country. Many people are hurt, sometimes permanently, and lives are disrupted in myriad ways. Most people don’t think of driver instruction once they get past their driver’s education course in high school. Let’s fact it, some folks should not be on the roads at all; not everyone has the innate talent for driving in a safe manner. Unfortunately, there is little that can be done to improve low performance drivers. The most we can do is continue to be alert and to drive defensively. Presented here are a few things that some people rarely recognize as safe driving habits. We all can use as many hints as possible to make sure that we, and others, will arrive home safely.
1. Don’t race up to traffic lights. Take a little time to slow down before getting close to that stopped car in front of you. You never know when you might skid on a slippery surface or your brakes may fail. Rear ending another car can be quite costly in time and insurance payments.
2. Be sure your car is in good working order. Check to see that your lights, signals, windshield wipers, and dashboard indicators are operational. All of these things help us see other cars and they help others see us. This is a form of communication with fellow drivers. If all of us know what the other fellow is going to do, then it is easier to avoid collisions.
3. Take extra precautions in bad weather. When it is raining we must understand that the road may be slick; slow down so that your brakes will be more effective. If you drive in the snow, be aware that there may be ice under the top layer of snow that can cause uncontrollable skids. If there are high winds, be aware that there may be tree limbs or poles blown down in your path. Avoiding such obstructions may be difficult.
4. If it is possible to stay off the road – do so. Don’t drive when you can stay home or use public transportation. There are entirely too many cars on the road as it is; removing one more car is a step in the right direction. It is a good idea to become aware of other modes of transportation (like buses, or bicycles) so that we have a choice when appropriate. Walking is a great idea when the distances are not too far.
5. Stay alert when driving. Many people "space out" while driving. They miss their turns and they can create huge problems for other drivers.
6. Learn to be courteous. Think about what other drivers are doing around you. If you pull into a parking lot, for example, think about who is behind you. Are they pulling in behind you with enough room? You could be blocking them from getting off the road causing an accident. Your rear view mirrors are there for a good purpose, they allow us to see what is going on. Most drivers are only cognizant of what is in front of them. It is most important to know what is going on in every direction all the time.