There are many things to learn before getting behind the wheel. This guide lists 4 car safety tips every new driver needs to learn.
You’re looking for car safety tips? Start here first.
In the United States, motor vehicles are the leading cause of death in Americans ages 0-30. More than 2 million people are injured in car-related accidents every single year. With such startling statistics, it can be frightening to get behind the wheel.
But the real question is, how to drive safely?
For those looking for the best, check out these four car safety tips every new driver needs to learn.
Read on to learn more.
1. Wear a Seat Belt
For your defense and safety, a seat belt is your best friend in the car. A seat belt will reduce the risk of serious injury in a vehicle by 50 percent. Most drivers with fatal injuries drove without a seat belt on.
Seat belts prevent the passengers and driver from being ejected from the vehicle in the event of a crash and save as many as 13,000 lives every single year.
Since 1975, seat belts have saved an estimated 255,000 lives. Your seat belt should rest across your shoulders and chest. Avoid placing the seat belt across your neck, behind your back, or under your arms. It should fit comfortably across your hips.
Wearing a seat belt is the law and you can get pulled over for not wearing one. So remember, click it or ticket.
2. Never Text and Drive
One of the best tips for safe driving is to never text and drive. Distracted driving claimed nearly 3,000 lives in 2018 alone.
Reading or sending a text takes an average of five seconds. On the interstate, you can drive the full length of a football field in that amount of time. Without looking at the road, you can easily hit things such as:
- Cyclists
- Pedestrians
- Wildlife
Consider hands-free options like speakerphone calls.
3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Driving a car safely means constantly being aware of your surroundings.
Roads are filled with motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, not to mentions countless blind spots that make it tricky to see ahead.
If you’re in a new, unfamiliar area, remember to take it slowly. Pay attention to all signage and remember to cover your break while making a tight turn.
4. Have an Emergency Kit on Hand
While driving, a roadside emergency can take place at any time. Whether it be inclement weather or an unexpected car service issue, you may have to pull over your car unplanned.
Be sure to have an emergency kit on hand. Consider adding items such as:
- Lug wrench and jack
- Tire gauge
- Cell phone
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Flashlight
- Gloves
Consider packing extra blankets and clothing during cold winter months should your car break down.
Important Car Safety Tips to Remember
There are many things to learn before getting behind the wheel. Be sure to keep these handy car safety tips every new driver needs to learn in mind. Driving a car is a big responsibility, but it’s an excellent skill to have.
What are you waiting for? Your car awaits its driver!
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