If you are an adult, you may have started driving since you were 16 years old. By this time, you have gotten comfortable behind the wheel such that you can do anything and still drive. Your driving school may have taught you how to drive but it is your responsibility to keep safe on the road. Many people today have died from road accidents. Some of these deaths are from genuine accidents while others are because of the negligence of the driver. You need to take part in reducing the number of deaths that happen on the roads by driving safely. With that said, here are useful safety tips to guide you through when driving.
- Wear the Safety Belt
Some people will wear their safety belts immediately when they get into their car while others only buckle up when going for long rides. Altogether, you should know that wearing the safety belt will save your life. It keeps you intact in case you crash. It prevents you from getting thrown inside the car or ejected in case you have an accident.
2. Keep Your Phone Away
It can be so tempting to get your phone when you hear that message sound. However, you must know that this is one of the unsafe ways of driving. Looking at your phone will keep you off the road and you will be putting your life and that of other road users at risk. The law is there to help prevent texting behind the wheel. If you have to text back or receive a call, pull over to a safe
location.
3. Don’t Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol or other Drugs
You are fully aware that drinking a specific amount of alcohol or using other drugs like marijuana can impair your power of reasoning and compromise your muscle coordination. These are important factors when driving. If you know that you have taken something that will affect how you think, reason, and react, avoid taking the wheel.
4. Watch Your Speed
Speed is another major road killer. So, always check your speed to ensure both you and other road users are safe. Remember to obey the speed limits set on the roads.
5. Don’t Drive too Close
When driving, observe the distance you keep from the vehicle in front of you. It will help you to stop or react quickly in case the front vehicle stops. Keep a considerable distance.
6. Take a Break
It is advisable to drive in breaks if you have a long journey ahead of you. Don’t drive when tired. Pull over if the place is safe and take a break. You can also look for accommodation nearby and spend a night without driving.
7. Stay Alert of the Surroundings
This means that you should know what’s happening on the road. Notice when another driver is going wrong. This also calls for observing the traffic lights. They are very important in safeguarding your road safety.
8. Always Signal when Overtaking or Changing Lanes
In case you want to overtake, make sure you signal first. You must also give the other driver enough time to see your intention. This should also apply when changing lanes. When passing, always use the left lane.
9. Be Careful with the Weather
You also need to take extra precautions when the weather is not perfect for driving. In case it is rainy, foggy, or misty, ensure you keep your headlights on. Use all the precautions you can get for keeping safe in such weather.
10. Avoid Distractions
Avoid as many distractions as you can. Don’t watch videos on your stereo while driving, don’t eat, or turn to talk to someone in the backseat. Keep your head straight and your eyes on the road.
Conclusion
Road safety starts with you. There is so much you can do to make sure you are safe and other road users are not at risk too. Some of the best things have been mentioned above. Follow them to reduce road accident deaths.