How much stock do you put in being a safe driver?

Unfortunately, some who get behind the wheel are not as careful as they should be. As a result, they put themselves and others in harm’s way.

So, are there measures you can take to become a safer driver?

Be Smart When Behind the Wheel

In doing all you can to be a safer driver, remember a few pointers:

1. What you do behind the wheel matters – For one, always be as smart as possible behind the wheel. Not doing so increases the risk to you and others. This means among other things avoiding distractions. You should not worry about using your cell phone or doing other things when driving your vehicle. No call or text is worth an accident. If there is an emergency and you need to use your phone, try and pull off at the nearest safe spot off the road. It is also important to focus on the rules of the road. This means obeying everything from the speed limit to no tailgating and more. Not obeying the rules increases the chances of an accident. By being smart with what you do behind the wheel; chances for an accident go down.
2. Is your vehicle safe enough? – As important as your driving habits are, don’t sleep on having a safe vehicle. With that in mind, be sure your vehicle is up to the task. If thinking of getting another vehicle, do as much research on autos of interest as possible. This takes on added importance with used vehicles. If considered a used vehicle, go on the Internet and use this online tool. It will help you to get history on a vehicle. That history can include any accidents, recalls and more. The more you know, the better off you will be riding in a safer vehicle.
3. Teaching driving safety – Finally, if you have a teen driver in the family are you teaching them safety? Be a good role model and show them what being a good driver is all about. If they learn the right way to drive from day one, chances are better they will be safer. For example, teach them about the dangers of drinking alcohol and driving. Many teens fall victim to peer pressure over time. From proms and graduations to other events, teens can end up risking their lives and the lives of others. Also remind your teen he or she must not get distracted when out on the roads. Given so many teens love their cell phones, remind your teen never to use it when driving. It only takes a second or two of lost concentration for an accident to occur. Set a good example early on and coach your teen along the way to be the best driver they can be each time out.

As you look at being the safest driver on the roads, always realize how important it is each time out.

In making sure driving safety is important in your life, are you making the grade?