When I was a cop, I taught police operation of emergency vehicles to police officers. When I retired from police work, I taught Driver Safety for AARP. I love to drive; I prefer that over flying. I have made several cross-country driving trips. I have listed below my stern requirements when driving in no particular order.
- Stay right except to pass.
- In reduced visibility turn your headlights on. If your wipers are on so should your headlights. Daytime running lights don’t have the impact of headlights and your taillights are on only when the headlights are on.
- Keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. A 2-4 second gap is recommended.
- When stopped in traffic be sure you can see where the tires meet the road on the vehicle in front of you.
- Don’t get locked into tunnel vision. Scan well ahead and on both sides of the road for hazards.
- At a traffic signal when you have a green light check for ”red light runners” before you enter the intersection.
- Stop for a yellow/amber traffic signal if you can do so safely.
- When making a left turn, be very cautious. Left turns are a major cause of crashes.
- Obey speed limits. Also, a major cause of crashes.
- Eliminate distractions. Eyes up, hands on the wheel!
- Your hands should be at 9-3 or 10-2 on the steering wheel. NOT 11-1 or 5-7. In Don’t drive under the influence, THC and even a small amount of alcohol can impair your judgement and reduce reaction time.
- Use your turn signal before you start to brake, before you enter a turn lane and well before you start to make a lane change.
- If you need to clear windows of snow, don’t forget headlights and taillights.
- Over driving is described as exceeding safe speeds or braking abilities. Do not over drive your ability, that of the road conditions or the quality of your tires.
- a crash air-bag explosions can break your wrist of arm if you are not in 9-3 or 10-2 position.
Leave a comment