How Safe is your Car? Well that all Depends on You!

The safety of your car begins with you. The number one rule before getting behind the wheel of your vehicle is not to be intoxicated in way shape or form. If you know ahead of time you are about to embark on a night on the town, make sure you bring along a designated driver who won’t have alcohol in his/her system. If alcohol gets the best of all those involved at the club there’s always the next alternative-call mom…NOT! You can always opt for calling a taxi to ensure the safety of everyone involved and the innocent who are driving the same roads you drive during that time. This is the first rule in car safety everyone should know and follow religiously. 

If you pan on going on a road trip do a quick check before leaving your driveway. Check headlights, brake lights, turn signal lights, and tail lights before your “hightail” out of town. You definitely want these components in working order especially if you are going to be doing any night time driving. Your lights need to be working properly to guarantee your safety and those who are going along for the ride. 

Here’s another important safety factor: are you in the right mind set? Getting behind the wheel of your car after a fight with your significant other could pose some safety risks. Have you had a good nights rest?  Being over tired can be risky driving behavior if you’re not rested up. You could easily fall asleep at the wheel and drive off the road or hit an oncoming vehicle. Taking any medication? If your prescribed medication makes you drowsy perhaps you should not take before driving your vehicle. 

Be cautious when your visibility is threatened by fog, rain, or snow. Turn on your lights and wind shield wipers to help you see during these hazardous situations. It’s always smart to be a cautious driver in all circumstances. Take your time, because one slip could be fatal. Watch out for the elderly-they cannot see as well as younger folks. You just might see a senior citizen driving the wrong way down a one Way Street so driving defensively is always a good idea.

Do not try and beat the red lights. Trying to beat one of these lights could cost you your life! It’s better to be late than to show up at the next gathering in a coffin. Worse yet…you could end up running over a pedestrian or even a child-killing them. Do you want to live with that outcome for the rest of your life? 

Make sure your tires have enough air in them. How much tread do your tires have? If they have little or no tread it’s time top replace your tires. You can find good used tires for a fraction of the cost if money is an issue. Make sure you have a good spare tire. A donut tire will get you to the next stop but it’s better to have a regular tire in case of a flat.

Okay, you probably get the picture so please keep safe and happy driving!