The news a few days ago that car seatbelts for kids failed safety standards was really worrisome. Despite this news, I thought that putting on seatbelts on kids whenever they're in the car is still certainly better than not at all. It was a relief today to read that the news magazine retracted their story on unsafe seatbelts for infants. But then again, it has left a question in many people's minds just how safe they are on the road even with these seatbelts on.
One should always be conscious of road safety when travelling on the road. There's nothing like defensive and safe driving. I found some helpful driving tips that also made me aware of my faults when driving on the road. And after going through an experience of getting harrassed on the road by two men, I can only be thankful that they probably weren't real criminals but just hotheads who weren't happy that I didn't allow them to carelessly overtake me on the road.
Driving Tips:
> Don’t forget the basics: Buckle your seatbelt, limit loose objects in your car and lock your doors.
> Be cautions at intersections. Intersections can be risky because there are a lot of distractions: turning cars, pedestrians and red-light runners.
> Steer clear of erratic drivers. Let a tailgater pass you.
> Drive cautiously. Keep your eyes on the road. Talking on a cell phone or reading a map can distract you and lead to an accident. Keep in mind that a distracted driver might also be near you.
> Be alert near parked cars. Someone could open a car door or pull out in front of you.
> Don’t drive sleep-deprived. Sleep is not a matter of willpower, but a biological need. If you become drowsy, pull off the road and get some rest.
> When passing another car, get past the driver’s blind spot as quickly and safely as possible.
> Don't overspeed, especially with children on board.
> Know your brakes. Most cars have antilock brakes, which require a driver to apply a firm and continuous pressure on the pedal.
> Leave about 1 car length between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead when stopping at an intersection. In stormy weather, leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
> Don’t drive through water. A small amount of water can disable a vehicle in seconds.
> Always check the traffic light ahead. Go through a yellow light only if it is unsafe to stop.
> When making a left turn from a stop, allow enough time to safely clear an intersection
> Don't change lanes in an intersection. Be in the correct lane well before you need to make a turn.
> Avoid making sudden moves or lane changes, or you will risk confusing other drivers. Use your turn signal well in advance to alert other drivers.
> When the light at an intersection turns green, always check for other road users before proceeding forward.
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