1. Buckle-up.

There are few safety features on an automobile that have proven as effective as seat belts. In spite of laws that mandate seat belt usage and bells, alert tones and dashboard messages to remind occupants to use the seat belt, there are many that ignore the necessity. The reality is that seat belts generally provide protection from other drivers. How many times have we read about the drunk or impaired driver that killed others and was seemingly uninjured in the accident? Without a doubt using seat belts is the most important part of driving.

2. Don’t tailgate.

We’re all in a hurry. There is reason to be as time appears to slip away quickly. However, following too closely in an effort to hurry or force the driver in front of you to move faster is a bad idea. It is instructive to consider that there may be a reason for the slow driving. Is the driver elderly and incapable of reacting to any emergency conditions quickly? Is the driver preoccupied with children? Perhaps there is a mechanical difficulty. You may never be able to discern the condition, but following the vehicle in front too closely actually places you in jeopardy. Take a deep breath, relax and know that the delay will more than likely only constitute seconds.

3. Be Wary (Drive Defensively)

What are the other drivers doing? Are they talking on a cellphone? Reading a map, eating or distracted in some other way? It’s incumbent upon you to remain alert about other drivers, traffic, road conditions and vehicles approaching from intersecting roadways. In other words, in addition to monitoring road signs and your own vehicle’s speed and placement on the roadway, you need to remain alert to the possible actions of others.

4. Use Your Rear-view mirrors.

Don’t forget that in addition to what is occurring in front of you there is activity to your rear. Is a vehicle following you too closely? A light tap on the brakes might serve as a reminder, however don’t push the point. Simply remain cognizant of the fact that someone is close behind. If you are not traveling the speed limit consider pulling over at an opportune time and letting the vehicle pass. In multi-lane traffic, be aware that vehicles are often passing. Be overly cautious as you enter or return from the passing lane. A physical glance may be necessary as often mirrors have a “blind spot” where a vehicle to your rear may not be seen. Use your mirrors, but know that there are limitations.

5. Observe Speed Limits

The largest number of tickets issued for vehicular infractions is to those guilty of speeding. Speed limits are posted for a reason and need to be observed. In most cases the difference between observing a posted speed limit and exceeding it by 10 miles per hour or more is only a minute or two. Is the cost of the ticket worth it? Don’t forget the actual cost of the ticket is slight compared to the rise in insurance rates that will greet those guilty of speeding.

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