What Are Some Best Practices for Drivers?

Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one who needs a refresher, there are plenty of best practices to follow as you operate a vehicle on our nation’s roadways. Follow these safe driving tips to develop good driving habits and promote the safety of yourself and others on the road.

Keep up with regular vehicle maintenance

While routine maintenance like oil changes, brake inspections, tire checks and other tasks may be time-consuming and an expense you don’t want to pay for, it’s all essential to keeping your car safely on the road. Be a responsible car owner and stick to a regular schedule for oil changes, and pay attention to fluid levels and the condition of your battery, brakes, tires, suspension and lights to ensure your car stays in drivable condition.

Observe speed limits

Speed limits exist for a reason—the posted speed limits promote safety, as speeding is consistently one of the leading causes of car fatalities. Keep in mind that driving speeds of up to 10 miles per hour above the posted speed limit will only get you to your destination a few minutes faster. It simply isn’t worth the risk to speed.

Adjust your driving for the weather

Heavy rain, snow or fog significantly increases the risk of car accidents. While you always need to be alert when driving, even in the best of conditions, poor weather calls for extra vigilance. Not only does bad weather affect visibility, it also impacts conditions on the roads.

It’s best to give yourself a little extra time to get to your intended destination and to drive below posted speed limits to reduce your risk of an accident. Also, remember to keep more distance than usual between your car and the car in front of you, and never drive when visibility becomes zero.

Drive defensively

While you can only control your own actions on the road, you can be aware of other drivers around you to promote your own safety as well as theirs. You can practice defensive driving by being fully aware of your surroundings, keeping your speed down and planning your movements to avoid a worst-case scenario. Most importantly, stay focused on the task at hand and don’t get distracted by electronics, music or other people in the car to ensure you arrive safely at your next destination.

Never drink and drive

This point can never be stressed enough. Driving while impaired is dangerous to yourself and others, and it’s also against the law. Instead of risking it and facing potential jail time (or worse), always plan ahead and secure a ride in advance if you plan on enjoying a night out.

Following these safe driving tips ensures your own safety and that of your passengers and other drivers on the road. While practicing good driving habits is something you need to do on your own, maintaining your car is better left to the professionals at Tom’s Body and Paint, Inc. Be a responsible driver and stick to a schedule of routine maintenance that keeps your car running safely and reliably!

Categorised in: Auto Body Shop

This post was written by Writer