6 Strategies That Help You Stay Safe on the Road

No matter your age or gender, certain driving habits are risky for everyone. Being a safe driver means spotting these dangers and steering clear of them. Here are 6 tips to help ensure safer roads for all.

1.    Beware of Tech Limitations

Some drivers have advanced tech in their newer cars, such as backup cameras and lane shift sensors. It's easy to rely too much on these gadgets instead of our own eyes. Surprisingly, around 80 percent of drivers don't realize that these systems have limits and may not spot pedestrians or bikes.

Remember, these technologies are there to help, not do all the work for you. Always look at yourself before making a move. Your eyes are your best tools for safety, so use them first.

2.    Perform Routine Safety Checks

Just doing oil changes and tire rotations isn't always sufficient for your car's safety. Periodically, it's crucial to conduct basic safety checks before hitting the road. Inspect your brake lights, turn signals, and headlights

Keep a tire pressure gauge nearby and ensure your tires are correctly inflated every few weeks. While it might seem minor, tire pressure matters a lot. Studies suggest that improperly inflated tires contribute significantly to accidents.

3.    Steer Clear of Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving isn't just about speeding or yelling out the window. It also involves tailgating, not fully stopping at stop signs, making risky lane changes, and speeding up at yellow lights.

Surprisingly, many drivers think speeding is okay. It's important to give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going and stay relaxed while driving.

4.    Alleviate Stress

Driving while stressed is dangerous for you and others on the road. To reduce stress, identify what triggers it, start exercising, and eat well. Also, improve your home environment by decluttering, organizing, and adding indoor plants to lift your mood.

5.    Avoid Multitasking

The only thing you should be doing while driving is focusing on driving. Multitasking is a myth, and any distraction, like texting, changing the radio, putting on makeup, dealing with kids, eating, or adjusting your GPS, is dangerous. The CDC says you're distracted if you take your eyes, hands, or mind off driving.

We all know the urge to text while driving, even though it's risky. To stay safe, consider using a phone stand for directions to resist texting temptation.

6.    Consider Your Coverage

Insurance is there to protect you financially if your car needs fixing or replacing. It can also cover you if you damage someone else's property or injure them. But reckless driving isn't just dangerous—it can also make your insurance more expensive. Your insurance company might even cancel your coverage if they think you're too risky.

Despite safety improvements, car accidents are still a leading cause of death. That's why every driver must prioritize road safety. Remember to do your part to stay safe on the road and behind the wheel.

If (for any reason), any unexpected mishap happens on the road, call My Big Tow for quick car towing services in St. Albert.