Driving quickly becomes a habit which results in many of us going on ‘auto-pilot’ while on the road. Being more mindful and aware while driving could potentially save a life.
Please review the driving tips below:
- Make a habit to glance in your rear-view mirror every time you touch your brakes to ensure the vehicle behind you is slowing down appropriately. If they are not, turn on your four-way signals and be prepared to quickly move to the shoulder to avoid a collision.
- At an intersection, never completely trust the turn signals of oncoming traffic, especially when they are traveling at a high rate of speed. The may have forgotten to either turn the signal on or off. Also, consider that they may change their minds about turning at the last second.
- When stopped at a light, scan the intersection for red light runners before proceeding when it turns green.
- On a highway, never change lanes in another vehicle’s blind spot; they also may be changing lanes and might not see your car.
- When changing lanes, don't rely solely on your side mirrors. Quickly glance over your shoulder to ensure your blind spot is clear.
- When waiting to make a left turn at an intersection, keep the tires straight rather than turned to the left. If you’re hit from behind you won’t be pushed into oncoming traffic.
- Trucks are bigger and slower than your vehicle. Give them the space they need.
- If someone is driving aggressively, don’t engage with them. Simply allow them the room to behave badly.
- If you experience a blown tire while driving, don’t slam on the brakes. The blown tire will act as an “anchor” and result in a severe fishtail (if it’s the rear tire). Instead, regain control by gently hitting the gas and try to stay as straight as possible, then release the gas and steer your vehicle off the road in the same direction as the blown tire.
- Ensure that your vehicle's headrests are in the proper position.
- Hold the steering wheel at “9” and “3” rather than at “10” and “2”. If the steering wheel airbag goes off, it’s less likely to cause severe injury to your hands, arms and wrists and rather will impact your head and torso as it should.
Please share this information with all the drivers in your life. Drive safe Windsor - Essex; from your friends at Gibb Insurance Brokers.