Important safe driving tips for Alaska: There is no fool-proof way to completely avoid car accidents. Reckless drivers sharing the road make it challenging to avoid car crashes. While no one wants to admit to poor driving habits, at one point or another, each of us is guilty of multitasking while driving. To help improve driver safety, we’ve gathered a list of safe driving tips. We hope you join us each Wednesday during the month of February and learn – or get a refresher on – these important driver safety tips.
Basic Safe Driving Tips for Alaska
Responsible drivers pay close attention to the roadway, report dangerous drivers, and regularly maintains their vehicle. Good drivers also practice the following basic safety tips:
Simple Safety Checks
Start by inspecting your vehicle’s headlights and turn signals. Be sure that both front and rear headlamps are working properly and visible from a couple of yards away. Take a reading of your tire pressure and maintain the recommended maximum. Look under your vehicle and ensure there are no loose objects or leaks.
Adjust Mirrors Before Driving
Do not start the vehicle as soon as you get into the car. Instead, take a moment to check if the mirrors and seat are in position. If either mirror needs adjustments, place your head on the driver’s window and adjust the left mirror until the left-end of the car is visible. To adjust the right mirror, tilt your head to the center of the vehicle and adjust the mirror to get a better view of the right-end of the car. When you return to your natural sitting position, you will not see either end of the vehicle, but blind spots are reduced.
Stay Off Your Cell Phone
Seems like an obvious one, however you’d be surprised how many of us fail to keep our mobile phones at bay while driving. Drivers using a mobile phone are four times more likely to crash their vehicle. Mobile devices are one of the biggest distractions to drivers because they demand full attention: manual, visual, and cognitive, causing drivers to take hands off the steering wheel, eyes off the road, and mind off driving. If you are a passenger in a moving vehicle operated by a distracted driver – intervene – they are putting you and other drivers in danger.
Wear Your Seat Belt
Seat belts save lives. When worn correctly, they prevent drivers and passengers from being thrown out of or around the vehicle during a crash. Yes, we’ve all heard the stories of people who might have survived if they had not been wearing their seat belt. At the same time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that more than half of all accident fatalities are people chose not to wear a seat belt.
Slow Down Alaska
STOP SPEEDING – We’ve all got places to be, people to see, and things to do. Risking your safety and others’ safety isn’t worth it. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates speeding accounts for $40.4 billion in motor vehicle crash damage every year. Be especially cautious in neighborhoods and school zones. Remember that children don’t always think to look for cars.
Today’s Safe Driving Tips for Alaska blog is Part 1 of a four-part series. For more Safe Driving Tips for Alaska, see Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Car Care Hunt; Auto List; Ward Merdes, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Image Source: AdobeStock
