Driving Safety: 10 Rules Every Driver Should Follow
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Buckle Up The most fundamental safety rule while driving is to wear your seatbelt. In many accidents, drivers who fail to wear a seatbelt suffer serious injuries. A seatbelt ensures the safety of both the driver and passengers and significantly reduces the fatality rates in accidents.
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Follow Speed Limits Adhering to speed limits is another important rule for safety. Speed limits are set to ensure that vehicles can be driven safely in accordance with road and weather conditions. Exceeding the speed limit shortens your reaction time and increases the likelihood of accidents.
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Limit Phone Usage Using your phone is a significant distraction while driving. Talking on the phone or texting while driving diverts your attention from the road. This is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. If there is no emergency, avoid using your phone or use hands-free devices to keep your hands on the steering wheel.
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Use Signals Carefully Signal usage is the most important way to communicate with other drivers on the road. Indicating when changing lanes or turning alerts other drivers about your intentions, preventing accidents. Never neglect the use of signals.
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Check Your Vehicle Before Driving Simple checks before you drive can save lives. Checking tire pressure, brake condition, oil levels, and the functioning of lights prevents possible breakdowns and ensures a safe journey.
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Do Not Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol Alcohol directly affects your driving ability. Consuming alcohol delays your reaction times and impairs your judgment. Driving under the influence not only endangers your life but also the lives of others. Therefore, avoid drinking and driving.
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Slow Down and Maintain Distance Especially on rainy or slippery surfaces, slowing down and maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front is critical. You may need to brake suddenly, and having enough space reduces the risk of collisions. Drivers should adjust their distance according to their speed.
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Evaluate Road Conditions Carefully Road conditions directly affect driving safety. In adverse weather conditions like snow, rain, or fog, you must be extra cautious. When the road is slippery, reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements. Checking the weather before heading out will make your drive safer.
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Avoid Driving While Tired Fatigue can cause distractions and slow down your reflexes. Resting well before long trips helps you stay more alert during the journey. If you feel tired, take a break and never drive when drowsy.
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Secure Children and Passengers Properly Children require special safety measures inside the vehicle. Placing them in an appropriate child seat prevents serious injuries in accidents. Also, ensure all passengers wear their seatbelts. The safety of passengers is the driver’s responsibility, and ensuring the security of everyone in the car is essential.