10 Tips for Better Driving

Driverthink Guest Post ~ by Janelle, at National Transport LLC.com

The following are some tips to make you a more "aware" driver as well as to hopefully help you increase your safety while on the road or traveling.
  1. Hire an auto transport company. Too often, people underestimate how much money can be saved (as well as time) by using a car shipping company instead of driving their vehicles themselves. Not only will a reputable auto mover pick up and drop off your vehicle for you, but more often than not, their drivers are far more familiar with various roadways, but when you ship your car, you don't have to worry about driving or tacking on extra miles to your personal vehicle!
  2. Plan out your trip in advance. Fail to plan; plan to fail. Planning out your trip in advance can save you money on gas, hotel expenses and even food stops. Don't make the mistake of relying on technology alone (i.e. your GPS) because technology can sometimes fail. Instead, know what areas to avoid so that you can have the smoothest ride possible.
  3. Travel during off-peak hours.Avoid driving during rush hour when people tend to drive the most erratically. Instead, try to plan your shopping and trips during off-peak or light traffic hours. Taking local roads instead of highways may also help avoid major jams.
  4. Use your turn signal. Turn signals are there for a reason. Don't ever assume that the people around you will be able to anticipate what your next move is going to be. Use your directional and then be sure that the coast is clear before changing lanes, slowing down to make turns or park.
  5. Don't follow too closely. Tailgating is one of the number one causes of traffic accidents in the United States. Even when you are approaching a red light, you should always leave yourself enough room to easily maneuver around a vehicle in the event of an emergency or to avoid an accident. When driving on the road, follow the 2-second rule when traveling behind someone. Failing this, you should always try to keep at least 2 car lengths between you and the person in front of you, and an even greater distance when traveling at higher speeds on highways. The reason for this is to give yourself enough reaction time should someone in front of you slam on their brakes. Remember, it takes a vehicle significantly longer to come to a complete stop when it is traveling at higher rates of speed!
  6. Cut out all distractions.Maryland, New Jersey, New York and several other states around the United States have now passed laws that ban all forms of technological use while driving, including using your iPod to change songs. Make no mistake about it; these laws are serious as are the fines that are associated with breaking the law. For your protection and the protection of those around you, stow all devices prior to driving so that you are not distracted. Turn your cell phone off, make sure that your iPod playlist is where you want it before you leave, etc. If you have to make a phone call, pull over to the side of the road to do so.
  7. Avoid nighttime driving. Driving at night is more dangerous because your sight is far more limited than it is during daytime hours. Be wary of deer and other wildlife that may dart across the roadway. Also be conscious of drunk drivers and other distracted motorists who may fall asleep at the wheel.
  8. Drive according to the posted speed limit.More people waste gasoline simply due to the fact that they speed while driving. If you follow the posted speed limit within 5 miles or so, you'll reduce the amount of times that you need to refuel.
  9. Get plenty of rest. Driving while tired ranks right up there with driving while intoxicated. Before you climb behind the wheel of a car (especially for long road trips), make sure that you get plenty of rest.
  10. Turn your lights on. Most people fail to realize/remember that whenever it is raining outside or whenever there is inclement weather, you must, by law, have your lights turned on. If you have your windshield wipers on, you must turn your lights on. Not only does this help to improve your field of vision, but it also alerts other motorists as to your whereabouts on the roadway, especially in heavy rainfall, snow or other inclement weather conditions.
About the Author: Janelle is an avid travel enthusiast and blog manager for one of the leading classic car transport companies in the United States, National Transport, LLC. For more information about car shipping rates, you can contact National Transport, LLC at 1.800.665.5022.
 

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