With current gas prices, we may be curtailing some road trips this summer. Don't forget to drive safely whenever and wherever you go. Four top driving safety tips:
FOCUS ON DRIVING
Keep 100% of your attention on driving at all times - no multitasking.
Don't use your phone or other electronic device while driving.
Slow down. Speeding gives you less time to react and increases the severity of an accident.
Children need to be buckled in their seats at all times. Teach children that being in the car means being quiet. Noise can easily distract you from focusing on the road.
DRIVE DEFENSIVELY
Be aware of what other drivers around you are doing, and expect the unexpected.
Assume other motorists will do something crazy, and always be prepared to avoid it.
Keep a 2-second cushion between you and the car in front of you. Increase to 4-seconds if the weather is bad.
MAKE A SAFE DRIVING PLAN
Adjust your seat, mirrors, and climate controls before putting the car in gear.
Build time into your trip schedule to stop for food, rest breaks, phone calls, gas, or other business so you don't have to rush to be someplace on time.
Pull over to eat or drink. It takes only a few minutes.
PRACTICE SAFETY
Always wear your seat belt and drive sober and drug-free.
Secure cargo that may move around while the vehicle is in motion.
Don't attempt to retrieve items that fall to the floor.
Avoid driving when you are tired. Be aware that some medications cause drowsiness and make operating a vehicle very dangerous.
Always use caution when changing lanes. Cutting in front of someone, changing lanes too fast, or not using your signals may cause an accident or upset other drivers.