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Feb 14, 2020

For those of us who spend a large chunk of our day behind the wheel, driving becomes second nature, and often we forget about safe practices along the way. By incorporating a few simple steps into your routine, you could save a life, be it your own or your passengers, in the event of a collision. Reduce your risk while out on the road with these four safety tips that every driver should know. Hand driving on steering wheel

Wear Your Seat Belt

Ever since you can remember, mom and dad have told you to buckle your seat belt. Now that you’re in the driver’s seat, practicing this basic rule can mean the difference between an afternoon is cruising with friends or one spent in the hospital. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that buckling up is the most effective step you can take to protect yourself in a crash. While most states have passed laws mandating seat belt usage, the NHTSA reported that they saved an estimated 14,955 lives in 2017 alone.

Check Car Seats

Young passengers need special protection when riding in the car. Routinely check child seats and boosters to ensure they are correctly installed to prevent injuries during a wreck. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a car seat reduces the risk of your child dying in a car accident by 71%.

Most late-model vehicles include a set of upper and lower fasteners to buckle in car seats securely. Always use a seat that’s appropriate for the child’s age, height, and weight and replace them immediately as your child outgrows it. Buying a new car seat can seem overwhelming, as there are dozens of options on the shelves. Refer to WebMD’s website for help choosing between rear- or forward-facing seat or a booster and consider having your local fire station install it for you.

Don’t Multitask

From texting to eating on the run, multitasking takes your attention away from the task at hand. Even the use of in-vehicle technologies like navigation systems and the radio can divert your eyes long enough to cause an accident. Set your route and dial in your favorite station before you hit the gas. Only make calls or send texts once you’ve arrived, or pull over if you need to contact someone right away. If the kids are fighting, do your best to ignore them until you’ve come to a complete stop.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Emergencies happen when you least expect them, and safe drivers want to be prepared. A plastic bin stowed away in the trunk, filled with supplies, can aid in getting help, making minor repairs, and signaling your troubles to other drivers. Consider packing a spare cell phone and battery pack, a first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a pair of work gloves. Pack additional items during the winter, such as a windshield scraper, a blanket, and a small folding shovel.

No matter how skilled a driver you are, do your part to keep the roadways safe. Practice these steps to help stay safe on the road and arrive alive.

Image by Pixabay @Free-Photos