Tuesday 22 November 2011

Car Driving Safety Tips

Car Driving Safety Tips

With the increasing number of vehicles on the road, car driving safety has become extremely important. In 2009, there were close to 34,000 highway deaths. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration must be doing something right because the level was the lowest since 1950. When driving, it’s always wise to follow all the traffic rules and regulations. Here are some essential driving safety tips.
How to Avoid Accidents
The most important thing when driving is to be alert. Don’t drive if you are feeling sleepy. Taking the eyes off the road is a big no. Switch off mobile phones or other gadgets that could distract you while driving. Plan the route with ample time to reach the destination so that you don’t have to rush or panic that you’d be late for an important appointment. Avoid going too fast. Speeding and tailgating is highly discouraged. Try to make it a habit to wear the seat belt.
  • Safe Driving Tips: The State of Indiana provides tips for safe driving.
  • Safety Tips List: The North Carolina Department of Transportation offers a list of safe driving tips.
Driving Safely in Poor Conditions
In case of bad weather, drive very slowly and try not to drive too long. If a long journey is required, take breaks in between. Maintain more distance between cars than usual to avoid sudden braking because it could cause the car to skid. While approaching turns or bends, be extra cautious. Check the car to see if everything is in good working condition and service the car regularly. A tire check is very important because the car skids easily in rainy or snowy conditions. Also ensure that the headlights and battery are working fine.
  • Driving in Bad Weather: The page provides tips for driving during bad weather conditions.
  • Winter Driving: The page provides tips and suggestions for driving during the winter.
  • Rain & Fog: The DeAnza College offers tips for driving in the rain or fog.
  • Snow: Come here to learn all about driving safely in the snow.
Drinking and Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol greatly increases the chance of being involved in an accident. Of all the deaths due to accident, nearly 30% of the deaths were related to drunken driving. If the blood alcohol level is greater than 0.08g/l, then an individual is said to be driving under the influence of alcohol. Nearly 70% of those involved in accidents were found to have a blood alcohol level of 0.15g/l or more.
  • Drinking & Driving: The page provides a lot of information on drinking and driving.
  • Drunken Driving: Come here to learn more about drinking and driving.
  • Drink Driving: The site offers facts and suggestions on drink driving.
  • Safety Tips: The Texas Department of Transportation provides tips to curb underage drinking and driving.
The Importance of Safety Belts
Wearing a seat belt is the most significant contribution a driver can make towards reducing the chance of fatality in accidents. Research shows that nearly 65% of the people who suffered serious injuries were not wearing a seat belt. If travelling with children, ensure that they are wearing their seat belt correctly. For younger children, ensure that there’s a proper car seat buckled up.
  • Seat Belt Use: The NHTSA provides information on seat belt usage in 2009.
  • Seat Belt Laws: The National Transportation Safety Board presents the primary seat belt laws.
  • Child Passenger Safety: The CDC offers vital information on the safety of child passengers.
Car Maintenance Safety Tips
Simple maintenance of the car will ensure that you do not have breakdowns or other trouble while driving. Firstly, get the car checked properly and insure it. Change the engine oil once in three months or for every three thousand miles. Postponing this could lead to bigger problems. Check the tire pressure regularly to avoid punctures. Have some tools and water in the car in case of emergency.
The Dangers of Cell Phone Use behind the Wheel
Cell phone has become such a big part of people’s lives that it’s very common to use it while driving. Using a cell phone when driving can be dangerous. In fact, accidents caused due to cell phone usage while driving have been on the rise over the past few years. Statistics show that nearly 25% of deaths are caused due to this. Numerous states have banned the use of cell phones while driving.
  • Cell Phone & Texting Laws: The Governors Highway Safety Association highlights the cell phone and texting laws in various states.
  • Distracted Driving: The Washington State Department of Licensing provides vital information on the dangers of cell phone usage when driving.
  • Cell Phone Driver & Drunk Driver: The paper studies if cell phone drivers are as dangerous as drunk drivers.
Driving safely is not only beneficial to the driver but also to other drivers on the road. Follow these driving safety tips for a safer journey.

1 comment:

  1. Safety belts are one of the most important thing you should keep in mind while driving and you should avoid use of cell phone as you mentioned.
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