Things to Avoid While Driving a Car
- Car safety is very important.yellow car, a honda japanese sport car model image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
Driving a car is a large responsibility. You, as the driver, have a duty to drive safely, not only for the passengers in your car, but for pedestrians and other drivers on the road. If you get into an accident, you could injure yourself, your passengers or others on the road. By avoiding certain unsafe driving habits, you can prevent many accidents. - With the ease of use of a cell phone, many drivers find that talking on a cell phone or texting while driving is no big deal. However, the distracting effects of either activity can be deadly. Drivers should limit all cell phone usage to hands-free devices, and you should never send texts while your car is on the road.
- Many driving instructors note that tailgaiting or riding very close to the car in front of you can easily cause an accident. You shorten your reaction time dramatically by limiting the amount of space you have to react. The best alternative is to leave at least four seconds between you and the car in front of you, according to The Smith System Driving Course.
- Minimize other distractions in the car, such as a radio, CD, or mp3 players. Utilize steering-wheel controls or only change the music during a traffic stop. Keep driver distraction to a minimum from passengers by enforcing safety rules in your car, especially when children are riding in the back seat. No one should intentionally distract the driver, through touching or yelling, while the car is in motion. There is no communication that needs to take place while the driver is operating the vehicle that cannot be completed in a calm conversation.
- Drinking and driving is a common cause of traffic accidents. Drivers should avoid alcohol prior to and during the operation of a motor vehicle. Additionally, a driver should not consume illegal substances, such as drugs, prior to operating a motor vehicle. You should also take care with certain prescription and non-prescription medications as well, such as painkillers and sleep aids. Many of these drugs carry warnings about operating motor vehicles while you are taking them.
