by The USAA Educational Foundation-...
Getting Ready For The Road
Even under the best conditions, driving has its inherent risks. But when special situations or hazards arise, paying attention to driving and making sound decisions become even more vital. The word emergency indicates the unforeseen, the unpredictable. No matter how careful you are, you cannot keep emergencies from happening. However, as safe and competent drivers, you can deliberately prepare for emergency conditions you might encounter on the roadway — from unpredictable weather to transporting an individual to the hospital.
Safety Tips
A few simple tips can help keep you and your family safe on the road.
Be well-rested and alert each time you get behind the wheel.
Never leave children or pets unattended in your vehicle.
Never drive if you have been drinking alcohol.
Never drive if you are using medications that cause drowsiness.
Wear prescription lenses as appropriate.
Make sure each passenger wears a seatbelt.
Make sure child passenger safety seats are properly installed.
Make sure children are properly secured in appropriate child passenger safety seats.
Follow traffic safety laws.
Obey speed limits.
Slow down in adverse weather conditions.
Avoid distractions while driving, including eating, drinking, cell phones, the radio, other drivers, other passengers and sights along the road.
Use rearview and side mirrors often.
Avoid prolonged hours of driving.
Take your vehicle for a full safety inspection 1–2 weeks before a long trip.
Place warning devices, when needed, at least 200 feet behind the vehicle.
Keep doors locked.
Do not leave valuables in view.
