When you’ve been driving for years, it’s easy to fall into a false sense of security. Sadly, all it takes is a minor mistake behind the wheel for you to experience a major family tragedy. Protecting your family is something you think about every moment of the day, and it shouldn’t be any different when you’re in the car.
So, with this in mind, we’ve gathered some simple advice on how you can keep your loved ones safe when you’re driving.
Take out a good insurance policy
Granted an insurance policy won’t necessarily prevent you from making a driving mistake. However, it’s important to know that you have total peace of mind when you’re behind the wheel. If you do find yourself caught up in an accident, you and your family are covered financially and depending on the cover your choose, you may have access to a hire car so your daily lives hopefully won’t be too disrupted. Want to find a better policy? Check out car insurance comparison online for the best cover for you and your family.
Car seats and seatbelts
Having a car seat is one thing, but if it’s not fitted correctly then it won’t do much to protect your child in the event of a collision. Always ensure your child’s car seat is fitted correctly and that it’s age and weight appropriate. All other passengers should be wearing seatbelts. Seatbelts don’t just prevent the occupants of the vehicle from lunging forward, they also keep us in place for effective airbag deployment. Seatbelts also prevent passengers from being forcibly ejected from the vehicle on impact.
Keep your car well maintained
If you don’t look after your vehicle then it won’t perform as well as it should. Something you’ll need it to do if you have to brake or steer to avoid a hazard and potential collision. Get into the habit of checking your engine fluids regularly, as well as your tyre pressure and braking system. Never put off getting your car serviced or repaired. The safety of your family could be at stake!
Take note of the road signs
From wild animal signs that feature camels, kangaroos and other wildlife dangers, to speed limits, school signs, closed lanes and temporary warning signs. It’s easy to think that these are simple reminders that you don’t need to give much thought to. In reality, you must adhere to all road signs and take great care when travelling on roads where hazards and instructions are present. They’re there to keep all of you safe.
And finally, don’t be afraid to yield to tailgaters
There’s nothing ruder than an impatient tailgater. And while it’s tempting to let that driver know how you feel, you should keep your family’s safety in mind. It’s important that you avoid any kind of collision or an aggressive response that could lead to a further altercation or danger. If you’re being tailgated, try to keep calm and simply pull over when it is safe to do so. For more guides to road safety make sure to visit Trevinolaw!