Two title ideas first:
"More
Careful Than You Think You Need To Be"
"Assume Everybody
Else Is Crazy"
The above titles are also my tips on safe
driving. First, always drive more carefully than you think you need to. Never speed.
Never drive under the influence of any chemical. Don't worry if the guy behind you is
showing his impatience; pull over and let him pass. Don't listen to anything on the
radio or other device that demands your attention. Never talk on a cell phone while
driving. The problem with cell phones and driving is not that one is using a free hand;
the problem is that when you talk on a cell phone when driving you are not paying full
attention to driving. Last two points: never be in a hurry; leave plenty of time to get
where you have to go and always know where you are going before you get into the
car.
So much for what you can control... now about other
people on the road. Although it's probably not true, assume everybody else behind the
wheel is either a terrible, dangerous driver, a newbie to driving, or completely nuts.
That way, you will always be understanding, courteous and warily defensive of all the
other cars on the road. Keep a good distance from any car in front of you and, if you
can, to your right and to your left. Make sure to leave at least 10 feet from you and
the car in front of you for every 10 mph you are moving. That way, you'll have enough
room to stop. And remember to be extra extra careful at night and in bad weather. Always
be prepared for the unexpected.
Lastly: Be ever vigilant
and make sure your car is in good working order, especially the brakes, that your tires
are properly filled, that you have enough fuel for the journey, and that you are wide
awake. If you you are feeling even in the least bit sleepy, pull over
immediately.
Outside of being in an unmoving car parked in
your driveway or at the curb, these pointers should keep you safe. I said should because
no matter how safely you drive, some things can come at you out of absolutely nowhere.
It's rare, but it happens and no one need be to blame.
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