Tips for Safer Driving

No road is 100% safe if we do not take precautions. Unfortunately, not all drivers are careful, and they might be the reason for your involvement in an accident. The vital thing is to take all the precautions and keep possible injuries and damages away by adhering to the tips below.

1. Maintain the vehicle in proper condition

Vehicle maintenance prevents accidents that are likely to occur due to mechanical problems. Ensure the tires have the correct pressure before leaving the parking. Uneven tire pressure can cause mechanical faults. Determine if the pressure gauges are functioning correctly. Any vehicle requires a checkup by a proficient mechanic after reaching specified mileage or when something unusual occurs. A well-maintained motor vehicle will also last longer without breakdown.

2. Avoid driving when drowsy

Alertness is paramount on the road, and drivers should avoid anything that impairs vigilance. Alcohol is a substance that impairs coordination, thinking, and reasoning, yet they are essential faculties for a driver. A drunk driver takes longer to react, and the ability to make a safe choice is lower. The impairment is the reason there is a law limiting driving when blood alcohol concentration surpasses 0.08%. Other substances containing drugs also affect alertness. For example, marijuana, according to CDC, impacts the brain by affecting the ability to decide and slowing reaction time. Some prescription medication also causes impairment.

3. Drive at a manageable speed

Drive at a speed that allows comfortable handling of the vehicle. Higher speed can create challenging situations and make it difficult to control a car. You achieve safety by restricting pace within the speed limit designated for the road but remember that they are for ideal conditions. For example, a vehicle should be at a slower pace if the weather conditions are unsuitable for the allocated speed. It does not help to risk a road crash even if a car accident attorney can argue the vehicle was within the road′s speed limit. For safety, drive at a slower speed than the limit when using a road after a long period or the first time. 

4. Avoid distractions 

Driving is a task that requires concentration on the task at hand. Activities that seem simple to handle become a distraction to drivers who perform them while on the road. Phone conversation, eating, applying makeup, or adjusting stereo volume are some of the activities that reduce the ability to notice potential problems and react appropriately. 

5. Pay attention to the surroundings

Drive while on the lookout for dangerous driving by other motorists or action by risky actions by pedestrians, cyclists, or pets. You can slow down, swerve or stop in good time to prevent an accident when the awareness of the surroundings is high.

6. Take extra precautions during bad weather

Slippery roads affect stability and braking. A high speed is not suitable for this condition. Instead, slow down when visibility is low due to heavy rains, fog, or snow. Maintain a longer distance from the vehicles ahead and drive slowly around corners. Parking at the roadside should always be an option if the weather conditions become too extreme.

As mentioned above, keep up with the maintenance on your vehicle. By having the tires checked regularly, brakes changed, oil changed, and engine inspected, this can help prevent your car from breaking down on the road. It will also keep you safer and avoid traffic accidents from any breakdowns. Cars sometimes will still have mechanical breakdowns so be sure to include auto extended warranty to avoid the stress of costly repairs. You may be asking yourself, “What does an extended warranty cover?” It protects you from future car repair costs. It can cover all parts of the car except for wear and tear items. 

With all the proper guidelines above, it will be sure to help you stay safe on the road. Driving can be stressful enough but you can make it easier by following these tips!