Driving a car is one of the most important things you can do in your life. It’s an essential life skill, and if you don’t know how to drive, it can be really hard to get around. But driving isn’t as simple as turning on the ignition and going- there are plenty of rules that govern what drivers should do at all times. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the road.
1) Maintain a Safe Following Distance
This is one of the most important things to do when driving. When you understand the importance of maintaining a safe following distance at all times you are able to keep your vehicle and its passengers safe, as well as the vehicle in front of you. You should never tailgate or try to pass another car for no reason- it’s not only dangerous but also illegal, so make sure you leave at least two seconds between your car and the one in front of you.
You should always be aware of your surroundings and try to anticipate what could happen next. Drivers cutting you off or swerving can be incredibly dangerous if you don’t see it coming, so make sure you keep an eye on the cars around you and watch out for anything that they
2) Follow the Law
Speeding, texting, and using your phone while driving can lead to serious accidents. If you’re not paying attention to traffic laws, then you’ll put yourself as well as other drivers at risk. Texting while driving is illegal, and using a phone while behind the wheel can get you a fine of more than $100. Texting while driving causes so many deaths each year, so avoid using your phone when driving.
If you have to make a phone call, pull over and concentrate on just that rather than trying to concentrate on your phone and the road.
3) Don’t Drive While Tired
Driving is tiring! If you’re not used to spending hours at a time behind the wheel, then it’s easy to get exhausted. So take regular breaks every hour or so. This can also help you avoid an accident since driving when you’re too tired is very dangerous! Drivers falling asleep behind the wheel cause about 100,000 accidents per year in the US.
Make sure that you look for rest stops and that you calculate them into your route. Another option is to have a co-pilot. Have someone take over when you are too tired to drive. Take turns so that the long drive is not as exhausting on both of you. Don’t think that drinking copious amounts of coffee will be enough to keep you going.
4) Don’t Drive While Intoxicated:
One of the biggest causes of accidents is people drinking too much and then getting behind the wheel. Studies have shown that drunk drivers are responsible for about 10,000 deaths each year in the US, so it’s really important not to drink or and drive. If you do want to drink, make sure you have a designated driver or organized taxi service. Roads are very dangerous when there’s any alcohol involved. Remember that driving after just two drinks is twice as likely to cause an accident than when no alcohol was involved. Also, do not drink when you are on strong medication. You might be able to drive perfectly safely after a drink, but when alcohol and medication are combined it can lead to drowsiness, or extreme intoxication very quickly.
Do not take drugs and drive. When you add in the effects of any drug you could lose a lot of concentration very quickly. This is a dangerous mixture and can put so many other people in danger.
5) Maintain your Vehicle Regularly
You’re more likely to have an accident if you don’t take care of your car properly. Check for fluid levels each time before starting out on a long trip- brake fluid needs changing every two years or so, while coolant should be replaced every 5-6 years. Keeping your car clean makes it easier for you to spot any possible problems, and if you keep up on regular maintenance, it should last much longer without having to be replaced (and that means saving money in the long run). Also, make sure that your tires are properly inflated and brakes work correctly before getting on the road.
Driving can be challenging, but it is important to stay alert and follow traffic laws. Doing so will help you avoid accidents or other dangerous incidents that could lead to serious consequences. For example, texting while driving can get you a $100 fine in some places (or more). You should also make sure your car is maintained regularly with regular breaks taken every hour or so. When it comes down to it, the most important thing is to drive responsibly.
