Car accidents are one of the most common causes of death in the world. Although cars are being built safer than ever before, it's the person behind the wheel who is responsible for driving safely. Unfortunately, there are still way too many reckless drivers out on the road to count. For those of you who do drive responsibly, and want to make the roadways safer for yourself and the drivers around you, here are a few tips to become a better driver:
Don't Have Your Car Visible Anywhere in Your Mirrors
Adjust your rear-view mirror to give you a view directly to the rear. Position it so that it best covers your view straight out the rear window. Do not bother tilting it to one side or the other to assist with your view of traffic to either side of your car. That is what the side mirrors are for.
Pay More Attention to Traffic Than Road Signs
Road signs are important, but traffic such as pedestrian and other cars should be taken more seriously. The reason is because they are the real thing and traffic signs are still and operated. Do not rely on traffic signs for sudden driving decisions. Obey the signs but do not assume that everyone around you is doing the same, too.
Always Have Your Headlights On
A car is visible for nearly four times the distance with its headlights on. As night slowly begins to fall over a city's streets and highways, there is usually an hour or two during which some cars will have their headlights on and others will not. As a rule, if you notice the day becoming darker, it is a smart idea to turn your headlights on.
Your Parking Break Stops Working if You Don't Use It Regularly
Always use your parking brake, especially if you are on an incline. If your brakes fail, the emergency brake uses steel cables to stop your car, and these steel cables can rust and corrode if they are rarely used. Check under the vehicle for corroded or frayed cables and replace as necessary.
Don't Brake During a Blowout
It is instinctive to step on your breaks when you sense danger ahead, however, this is not the case during a blowout. If you slam on your brakes during a blowout, you will most likely fishtail, or flip your vehicle. If you experience a blowout, do not hit the brake but instead, keep your foot on the gas while trying to keep your vehicle as straight as you can, the flat tire will eventually slow you down.