Auto Safety Tips

Whether making your daily commute, running routine errands or taking a longer trip, the road can be a dangerous place for even the safest drivers. Any time you get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, you must be committed to ensuring the safety of yourself and your passengers.

5 Safe Driving Tips

Although there are many dangers on the road, you can also take various steps to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. By prioritizing the following driving behaviors, you may be able to minimize your chances of being involved in an accident:

1. Avoid distractions. Keeping your full focus on the road is critical to safe driving. Even a momentary lapse in attention could lead to a devastating accident. While staying off of your phone is key, you should also be mindful of other potential distractions. For example, eating, drinking and having passengers can all affect your driving. Avoid multitasking and ask others in your vehicle to avoid excessive conversations or actions. When traveling with pets or children, make sure they are properly secured and not moving about the vehicle.
2. Plan ahead. Take time before you begin your journey to know your route. Checking for directions in the middle of your trip may not only make you late but could also be dangerous. Check the weather forecast and give yourself extra time if inclement weather is predicted.
3. Prioritize maintenance. Regardless of your driving habits, being behind the wheel of a vehicle that has not been properly maintained is dangerous. Familiarize yourself with your automobile’s manual and adhere to its maintenance guidelines. This may include regularly changing oil, rotating tires and replacing various parts, such as brake pads, air filters and windshield wiper blades.
4. Drive defensively. Ere on the side of caution while on the road. Adhere to speed limits, traffic signals and other laws, and follow vehicles in front of you at a safe distance. While driving, constantly scan your surroundings and be aware of potentially dangerous circumstances. For example, if you notice another driver near you is acting recklessly, try to distance yourself from them and be ready for them to take unexpected actions. Avoid allowing others’ unsafe driving habits to aggravate you.
5. Maintain insurance. Even the safest and most responsible drivers may eventually be involved in accidents. When this happens, it’s essential to have adequate auto insurance. By maintaining coverage, you may be able to rely on critical financial assistance to pay for your injuries, repairs and other losses. Furthermore, certain levels of auto insurance are legally required. As such, failing to carry a policy could put you at risk of being arrested.

We’re Here to Help

At Cape Wide Insurance, we have over 20 years of experience helping individuals, families and businesses in the West Chatham area protect themselves with ideal coverage solutions. Our dedicated agents will work with you to explore optimal auto policies.

Visit our website or call 508-945-5244 to get started today.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.