6 Tips For Safe Driving

As roads get slippery this winter, let’s take a few moments to review a few simple rules for safe driving.

1. Drive the speed limit. Remember: The faster you are driving, the longer it will take for you to stop.
2. Be aware of vehicles around you. Always leave enough space between you and the car in front of you. One car length for every 10 mph you are traveling is a good general rule. If you see someone driving dangerously or erratically, pull off the road. If possible, note the license plate number and call the police.
3. Use caution at intersections. More than two-thirds of all traffic-accident-related injuries happen at intersections. Tap your brakes a few times before you come to a stop to let drivers behind you know you are slowing down. Proceed carefully, looking both ways even if you have a green light.
4. Drive defensively. Communicate with other drivers through your brake lights and turn signals. Yield to other vehicles whenever possible. Pay attention to the vehicles both in front of and in back of you. Always look ahead for turning or slowing vehicles.
5. Use caution at turns. Turn on your directional signal 100 feet before your turn and slow down. Assume that other drivers don’t see the turn signal and proceed with caution.
6. Use cell phones sparingly. Dialing or talking on a cell phone while driving minimizes your ability to respond to road hazards and may distract you from driving safely. It’s best to find a safe place to pull over and stop when using your cell phone.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 30th, 2009 at 7:45 am and is filed under Safety Articles. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.