June is National Safety Month: Be Safe on the Road
Jun 27, 2016
Roadways are a place of constant risk. Since it is impossible to control the choices of everyone on the road, anyone behind the wheel needs to be a defensive driver. Patience and focus are qualities that can help you avoid an accident should someone else make a bad decision.
- Be distraction free. Avoid anything that prevents you from being able to safely operate a vehicle. Don’t use your cell phone when you are behind the wheel and always preset your navigation system and music playlists before driving.
- Avoid impairment. Impairments can include being under the influence of drugs – both legal and illegal. Always designate an alcohol and drug-free driver or arrange for alternate transportation. Also check the side effects of your medications before getting behind the wheel.
- Check your speed. Speeding reduces the amount of time a driver has to react in a dangerous situation. Always allow adequate time to get to your destination. Remember to adjust your speed for weather conditions – in some situations the legal speed limit may be too fast.
- Rest up. Our lives are busy and sometimes we try to fit too much into a day. Getting behind the wheel without enough rest can be very dangerous. Get plenty of rest before a long trip and remember to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Help teens and children. Driving is a skill that requires judgment and experience, which can take a while to acquire. Parents should drive with their teens on a regular basis. The safety of child passengers is the responsibility of the driver. Child safety seat requirements change as children grow. Make certain you know the laws and ensure that child safety seats are properly installed and adjusted to a child’s height, weight and developmental level.
And, remember...cars aren't the only modes of transportation on the road. Watch for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists (and all of these folks need to follow the rules of the road as well).
Mom's advice in life is good for driving, too: Mind Your Manners. Have a safe summer!
