Tag Archives: safe driving

Uncategorized

Driving Health and Safety: How to Avoid Driver Fatigue

Driving safely means more than keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. It also means keeping your focus on your environment so that you give yourself the best possible chance of anticipating hazards and reacting to events you cannot anticipate.

This means staying awake at all times, literally and figuratively. The team at Nottingham Driving School share some tips on how to do so.

Only drive when you have had enough sleep

This tip is both self-evident and for some people (especially parents of young babies) an obvious case of “easier said than done” but it is still arguably the single, most important precaution against driver fatigue.

If you are tired before you start the car then you will be fighting against fatigue throughout the whole of your journey and you may lose. Even if you do not actually fall asleep, your concentration is bound to be impaired and this can have disastrous consequences, especially if you need to react quickly.

Be careful about driving when on medication

If you’re on medication, check the packaging carefully to see if it is likely to make you feel sleepy.

Avoid driving when you are under the weather

Fighting off an illness, even a minor one like a cold, can really be tough on your body. That’s why the best prescription is often rest. When you’re under the weather, it can be dangerously easy for fatigue to creep up on you without you noticing – until it’s too late.

Try to avoid driving after meals, at least heavy meals

If you eat heavy food, your body has to work to digest it and your natural inclination will be to take a rest while it does so. The heavier the food, the more rest you will need and the more you will want to sleep.

Alcohol can also be dangerous to your concentration, even if you’re technically under the legal limit. If you’re in a situation where alcohol is flowing but you know you’re going to need to drive, then just say so or, at the very least, stick to drinks with relatively low alcohol and a lot of liquid (like beer or spritzers).

Keep the window down as much as possible

Given the Great British weather, you may need to keep the window up most of the time for your comfort and safety, but if you can roll it down, even a bit, then the fresh air can do a lot to keep you awake.

Use refreshing scents like citrus and menthol

Citrus and menthol scents really do stimulate the mind, at least for short periods, after a while either the scent fades or the body tunes it out (or a combination of both), but spraying either or both of them from time to time can be enough to get your brain (back) in gear.

Plan your trip to allow for regular breaks and use them wisely

There are two ways you can use a break in a long trip. The first is to get active. Physically get out of your car (assuming it is safe to do so), at least roll down the window to get some fresh air (if you possibly can) and in either case do some stretches. The second is to have a short sleep.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK BEGINS MAY 17TH!

It’s the time of year that everyone is ready to get their boats back on the water and have fun fishing, skiing, or taking a relaxing ride on smooth water. Getting boats conditioned after a long winter’s rest is important to the success of the boat starting each time, and running as it should. Having owned a boat, there’s much more to it than just backing it into the water and taking off. The most important thing to have in your boat is a life jacket for each person.

This week’s reminder is sponsored by the National Safe Boating Council.  NSBC was organized in September, 1958, under the name National Safe Boating Committee. Their mission is to be the foremost coalition to advance and promote a safer recreational boating experience through education, outreach and training. The NSBC presently has a membership of over 330 U.S. and Canadian organizations, all with an interest in boating safety and education. The NSBC membership is diverse, with approximately 65% of the membership being nonprofit organizations and 35% being for-profit organizations. 

This year’s theme is “Ready, Set, Wear It,” referring to life jackets. By law, there should a life jacket for each passenger, as mentioned above. At times when you are fishing, and not moving, the jacket may be placed under the seats. But they must be ready for use at a moment’s notice. Wearing a life jacket can be slightly uncomfortable at some times, but even the strongest swimmer could have an accident, falling out of the boat, and possibly hitting their head. With no life jacket, their chances of surviving may be slim. 

When we had our boat, we made sure we had plenty of life jackets, even one for our Cairn Terrier, Willie. He had short little legs, and while we were fishing, he would go to the front of the boat and invariably slip and fall into the water. Our mode of rescue was a dip net, while his jacket kept him afloat. We didn’t want to take the chance that he might not be able to swim very far. 

On one particular outing, the local game warden pulled up to our boat to check our fishing license. He really got a kick out of seeing Willie in his life jacket; he said he hadn’t seen that very often. (This was several years ago, and jackets for dogs are much more popular now.) 

Have a fun summer on the water this year. Remember to use plenty of sunscreen, wear some great sunglasses, (the reflection off water can damage your eyes), wear a hat, keep some soft drinks and water in the ice chest, snacks, and have your cell phone handy in case you get stranded. The same law applies to drivers of boats, as to drivers of vehicles – don’t drink and drive! 

Stay safe and remember, wear that life jacket. After all, that’s what they are for – to save lives!

Ergonomics, Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

AVOIDING UNNECESSARY INJURIES IN THE WORKPLACE (GUEST POST)

Workplace injuries have been greatly reduced in the past few decades. According to OSHA, since 1972, worker injuries and illnesses have dropped from 11 incidents per 100 workers to fewer than 4 per 100 in 2010. This is a tremendous increase in workplace safety, but there is still room for improvement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics this still equates to nearly 3 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. In 2012, over 4,300 individuals were killed on the job.

The burden for keeping the workplace safe rests with the employer. They are responsible for meeting or exceeding the guidelines set out by OSHA. Even though a business may not be involved in an inherently dangerous industry, every job comes with its own set of particular hazards. Some common workplace hazards include:

  •          Transportation accidents
  •          Workplace violence
  •          Slipping and falling
  •          Repetitive motion and ergonomic injuries

This is hardly an exhaustive list. What matters is that each business should take into account which hazards are most likely to pose a threat to its employees and take actions to mitigate them. Not all accidents are avoidable, but with planning even many of these risks can be forestalled.

One of the biggest causes of workplace fatalities isn’t even tied directly to the jobsite. It involves the commute getting there. Driving accidents are a major source of injury and death. Fortunately, their causes can be abated. The culprits behind workplace driving accidents are often over work, cell phone usage, and sleep deprivation. A solution for this is to make employee’s work hours regular and predictable. Instituting safe cell phone usage policies will also help reduce accidents and fatalities.

Another cause of workplace injury is violence. We often hear of disgruntled employees with guns shooting their co-workers, but this is a statistically small percentage of workplace related violence. The vast majority of workplace violence, nearly three quarters, is attributed to robbery. Employers should take this into consideration, especially where employees are transporting money for the company.

Factors employees should look into include where employees are handling money, where they are interacting with the public, or when they are working alone or late at night. Making sure the area around the workplace is well lit and monitored by security cameras is a good deterrent.

Slips and falls are another major cause of workplace injury and death, especially in the fields of construction and landscaping. However, slips and falls are also attributed to cluttered or unkempt workplaces. Keeping floors clear of cords, paper, etc. and cleaning up spills immediately will greatly reduce the chance employees will be injured from slips and falls.

The most non-fatal cause of workplace injury is repetitive motion or ergonomic injury. These injuries affect employees across a wide range of industries from office environments to manufacturing. These injuries often cause chronic conditions which don’t easily heal, therefore they result in more lost work time.

Not all workplace injuries can be avoided. However, they can be greatly reduced through employee education and awareness. If you or someone you know has been injured at work and believe the employer is at fault, you may want to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer that can help determine if the accident was preventable.

Emilee Atteberry is in her last year of law school and enjoys writing on a variety of law topics. She is particularly interested in personal injury law and currently writes for http://www.peachweathers.com/.

General Safety Issues

SHARING THE ROAD SAFELY

After a fun day of shopping and visiting with close friends last week, we parted ways and headed for home.  I might mention that we were shopping in a city that we were unfamiliar with, so it’s even more important to drive with care, and watch for the other guy, too.  My dear friend left first, to head for her home town, and the rest of us were close behind going our way.  We reached the corner where we needed to turn, and there had been an accident – sirens, police, an ambulance, and then the most frightening realization, my friend walking to the crash site!

She had taken a turn to go home when a young man on a motorcycle smashed into her car.  Thankfully, he was wearing a helmet – but his bike was probably totaled, and her car sustained quite a lot of damage.  Witnesses said that he had been standing on the seat of the bike earlier, then “popping a wheelie” just before he came back down on the street, when he hit her.

It woke us all up to the fact that accidents happen so fast, and this could have ended with a much sadder outcome.  There are some tips that have been given in previous articles about motorcycle safety, but I want to repeat some of them and hope that a parent or biker will pay attention before it is too late.

From the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Share the Road Safely:

Watch the No-Zones: Never hang out in a truck’s blind spot or “no-Zone”.  These are at the front and back and on both sides of the truck.  They cannot see you when you ride in these spots, and cannot stop as fast as you can.

Always Wear a Helmet: Make sure helmets meet US DOT standards.  Check for the DOT label in your helmet.  The accident I am telling you about, the rider’s helmet was scratched where he hit the car, and the visor was completely off. 

Drive to Survive: Remember that motorcycles are the smallest vehicles on the road.  There is virtually no protection in a crash.  Be extra cautious, watching the signals and brake lights of other vehicles.  Don’t ride inbetween lanes in traffic or share a lane with another vehicle. You must respect the law just as other drivers.  Don’t instigate aggressive driving with other motorists.  This only increases your chance of a crash.

Check Yourself and Your Bike: Conduct a safety inspection of the bike prior to each ride, and wear protective clothing including gloves, boots, and a jacket.  Some high-visibility stickers or vest will help others see you.

Watch Your Speed:  Motorcycles accelerate the fastest, while trucks and buses are the slowest. Watch your speed around trucks, especially in bad weather or riding at night.  If you collide with the back of a truck, your riding days will most likely be over.

For those of us driving cars, be sure to watch for signs, especially in surroundings you aren’t familiar with, and some cities should ask themselves if there is appropriate signage for visitors to navigate safely, staying with the flow of traffic in their towns?  It only took a few seconds for what could have been devastation for my friend and that young man on the bike.  Cars and motorcycles can be replaced; material things can. But my friends can’t be replaced.  Thank Goodness for Guardian Angels! Drive and ride safely!

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS (GUEST POST)

By Jakob Barry

It’s the holiday shopping season which means just about everyone will be heading to a mall at some point over the coming weeks. Even if you never go to one the entire year chances are you’ll be entering a store somewhere with the intention of purchasing a gift for a loved one or friend.

At the same time it’s important to keep in mind holiday shopping can be stressful, especially when you can’t find what you’re looking for and are running out of time. Even if you aren’t the one feeling the pressure others around you are which makes the perfect ingredients for unfortunate accidents and misunderstandings.

For a safer journey this shopping season keep the following tips in mind.

1. Make a list
It’s a safe bet making a list can prevent unnecessary rushing around and the potential for accidents. Why? One of the most frustrating things is when there’s a lot to do, a number of errands to run, things to pick up and just when we think it’s all under control we realize we forgot to get something at a previous location.

Then, with so much going on in our lives and all kinds of timetables and schedules to keep staying focused is a challenge and frustration sets in. With millions of other shoppers out doing the same thing a list can come in handy and keep us safer than we realize.

2. Drive safely
Even if a list was made be reasonable with your time and don’t rush, especially with driving. Plan shopping with enough time to compensate for long lines and lots of traffic, as there are a lot of other people on the road who also have goals they are trying to meet and may get an itch to speed.

Keep an eye on the road and on everyone around you as driving this time of year may just be a real obstacle course.

3. Watch the weather
Driving carefully is one thing but when the weather gets bad extra precautions are needed. Check the forecast before going out and if things get messy make sure to keep distance between other vehicles.  Also, dress accordingly. This means if bitter cold air moves in don’t rely on heat from your car or inside the mall. Bring what’s necessary to be self sufficient so you stay healthy throughout the holiday season.

4. Stay hydrated:
Believe it or not, shopping can take a lot out of a person and dehydration, even in the winter can occur. This is particularly true when being exposed to a lot of dry heat like in department stores.  For this reason make sure to drink enough water and stay away from sodas and sugar drinks. Not only are they less healthy but will dry you out faster. 

5. Hygiene:
When it comes to safety and shopping we often forget many items we touch were already touched by countless other people. Hangers, changing rooms, bathrooms, railways, door handles, checkout counters, and more. What they all have in common is the likelihood of having been in contact with germs that can be picked up easily when we aren’t careful.

Always remember to wash hands before eating or putting them anywhere near the mouth. This will also prevent the transfer of germs to others we may be traveling with such as children or friends.

Jakob writes for Winston Salem, N.C. flooring contractors

Thanks, Jakob, for these great tips for successful and healthy shopping for the holidays.  It would be wise to carry some hand sanitizer along, for those times when a rest room is not close by. 

Also, to our readers, Texas America Safety Company, tasco-safety.com, is still offering free shipping on gift orders placed before Christmas.  Check out some of our great products that would make someone very happy. Pat

General Safety Issues

NETS KICKS OFF DRIVE SAFELY WORK WEEK

October 1 – 5 is designated as Drive Safely Work Week.  This years’ campaign is “Back to Basics – Your Keys to Safe Driving” and is sponsored by the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety.  (NETS) This is the perfect time for employers to look at their policies, especially those that cover issues such as mobile device and safety belt usage, and update them in order to bring more attention to their employees exhibiting safe driving behavior. 

This is the 16th year of Drive Safely Work Week – a reminder that 16 is also the age that most teenagers get to try their “wings” behind the wheel.  There is so much emphasis on distracted driving that we sometimes forget that responsible driving enforces the wide range of skills needed to be a safe, dependable driver. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 40,000 Americans die on our highways every year.  Every twelve minutes someone dies in a vehicular accident on U.S. Roads.  Every 10 seconds someone is injured and has to be taken to an Emergency Room.  It is also estimated that in addition to the 40,000 Americans who die annually, another 270,000 are hospitalized, resulting in costs to states and our nation exceeding ninety-nine billion dollars.  Even though the NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) says vehicle fatalities have declined in recent years due to newer vehicles having better safety features, and seat belt use has improved, the number of traffic deaths caused by distracted driving has increased. 

The agency reports that distracted drivers cause 4 out of 5 motor vehicle crashes in the U.S.  The main causes are cell phones and gadgets. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reports that more than 150,000 persons are injured in accidents caused by drivers either texting or talking on their cell phones each year.  

The DSWW campaign focuses on the following issues:

  •          Driving distraction-free;
  •          Safe parking and backing;
  •          Fine-tuning the fundamentals to avoid some of the most common types of crashes;
  •          Buckling up all the time and encouraging others to do the same;
  •          Recognizing and preventing fatigue-impaired driving. 

NETS furnishes a toolkit that is packed with tips and information to refresh some of the skills for drivers that may have become a bit rusty, and possibly teach some new ones.  It also has some good information for those who have a new driver in the family, which could help the driving coach.  This toolkit can be downloaded on the NETS website. 

U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood, says, “Employers are able to reach up to half of the American people and their support in promoting safe driving habits both on and off the job is critical.  I applaud NETS for making this toolkit available to companies and organizations across the country, and I hope it serves as a reminder for drivers to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and focus on driving.”

 

 

 

`

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

SAFE DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER (GUEST POST)

There are more than 10 million motor vehicle accidents in the United States annually. In times of inclement weather, whether it be heavy rain, snow, ice or fog, the chances of being involved in an accident increase exponentially. With a few reminders, a driver can greatly reduce the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident in bad weather conditions.

Stopping distances increase dramatically as speed increases. Allowing for a proper stopping distance is probably the number one rule for safe driving in inclement weather. Stopping distance is measured as the distance covered by a vehicle at a given speed when applying brakes. The reaction time of the driver is factored into stopping distances. For an average passenger car, the overall stopping distance, including reaction time, travelling at 30 mph is 75 feet. When the speed is doubled to 60 mph the stopping distance increases to 240 feet, or more than 3 times the distance at 30 mph. 
In wet pavement conditions, stopping distances double. On icy roads, the stopping distance can increase as high as tenfold. Stopping an average vehicle on wet pavement at 60 mph may take nearly 500 feet, or nearly a 10th of a mile. 
Most are familiar with the rule of allowing 2 seconds of time between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. On wet pavement or ice, the time should be at least doubled. Simply observe the vehicle in front of you as it passes a stationary object next to the road, such as a road sign. Then count how long it takes your vehicle to reach the object. If less than 4 seconds elapse, you are following too close. Slow your vehicle to give yourself distance between you and the car in front.
Braking on ice, snow or wet pavement will differ depending on whether the vehicle has an antilock braking system (ABS). With normal hydraulic brakes, the driver will pump the brakes rapidly to slow the vehicle. The pumping action is intended to prevent the wheels from locking, and ultimately skidding. 
On antilock brakes, the brake system performs the pumping action for the driver. The driver simply presses the brakes firmly, keeping constant pressure, and the brake system will rapidly apply intermittent pressure. The driver will know when the ABS is engaged, because the brake pedal will vibrate.
All windows and mirrors should be clear of ice, snow and fog while driving. Avoiding “peek hole” vision can mean the difference between avoiding an accident in time or being involved in one. During winter in snowy or icy climates, carrying a bag of salt, sand or even cat litter in the trunk of the vehicle will pay off should the vehicle become stuck. These items can be applied near the drive wheels to allow for traction, if stuck.
Finally, defensive driving becomes a greater priority in bad weather. Never assume that another driver is following the rules of the road and driving attentively. The driver should eyes roving, checking each direction, including side windows and mirrors. Be especially attentive at intersections, watching drivers approaching from the side or the opposite direction. Avoiding an accident with defensive driving techniques is a better result than claiming an accident isn’t your fault.
 
About the Author
Sam Marks loves to write about safety for http://www.defensivedrivingonline.net and has been a professional writer for 3 years. After a car accident that left her at home for several months, she developed a talent for writing about safety and considering things others look past.
 
We thank you for this article that instructs us on the exact protocols we should take in judging distance when driving in heavy rain, and other inclement weather.  With hurricane season beginning, parts of the southern U.S. may be experiencing downfalls of rain and high winds.  Keep these safety tips in mind all year.  They might save your life.  pb
 
General Safety Issues

DRIVING SAFELY IS LIVING SAFELY

The mission of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is to reduce the following statistics by getting drivers and motorcyclists to change their behaviors once they get behind the wheel or on the streets: approximately 1,700 fatalities and 840,000 injuries annually occur due to vehicle crashes off public highways in the United States.   

Their theme for the period of December 16th through January 2nd is “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”  Distracted driving accounts for many injuries and deaths each year.  If persons have parties to attend, they should always have a designated driver or know how they are going to get home and not get behind the wheel.  There are many causes of distracted driving, such as not paying attention to driving safely, cell phone use, driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, or letting the mind wander about other things, rather than driving. 

The National Safety Council estimates that there will be approximately 287 traffic fatalities and 28,700 medically consulted injuries that will occur during the Christmas holiday.  Their estimates for the New Year’s holiday are approximately 297 traffic fatalities and 29,700 medically consulted injuries.  The total of the two holidays add up to far too many accidents.  The NSC also states that seat belts are 45 per cent effective in preventing injuries.  So, please buckle up, drive sober and safely, and get to your holiday destination and back home safe and secure, and don’t become a statistic. 

Not only during the holidays, but during the winter, please think about following these tips:

  •          Keep your vehicles clear of ice and snow.  The key to good driving is good vision.
  •          Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars.
  •          Be extra alert.
  •          Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
  •          If you are not accustomed to driving in icy conditions, use extreme caution.  

What if you were trapped on the road because of weather conditions?  Here are tips to follow:

  •          Keep your cell phone charged so you can call for help.
  •          Stay in your car and wait for help.
  •          Run the engine for short periods of time to stay warm.
  •          Make sure your exhaust is clear of snow.
  •          Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine to signal rescuers.
  •          Hang a brightly colored piece of cloth or piece of clothing from your car.
  •          Exercise from time to time by moving arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.
  •          Always carry blankets and a supply of water and snacks, just in case. 

Please use care when driving during this season, as traffic will be heavier than usual; allow plenty of time to travel and take frequent stops.  We at Blog4Safety and Texas America Safety Company wish everyone a safe and Happy Holiday season.

General Safety Issues

GETTING THERE SAFELY IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS!

Monday, October 3, Drive Safely Work Week began, sponsored by the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety.  Many employers that are members of NETS are owners of large fleets that travel our roads day and night.  The “driving” factor of the message they want to get out is that safety relies on drivers, as well as passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians, who all play an important part in preventing distracted driving.  In partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation, NETS wishes to address the safety of all employees, not just those who drive as part of their job.  It is hoped to reach one-half of our nation’s population with this important message. 

Of the almost 5,000 organizations that participated in the 2010 campaign, it has been reported that 88 per cent of the businesses already had or will have a mobile device policy in place this year.  This shows the desire of businesses to not only reach their employees, but families and the communities they serve.  October 1st, Nevada became the 9th state to ban handheld cell phones while driving. 

NETS Drive Safely Work Week has a Toolkit that can educate employees on how to prevent distracted driving  – how it affects both those in a vehicle and those sharing the road.  You may download it from their website.  This Toolkit will benefit:

  • Those who have a workplace policy by getting tips and activities to reinforce and sustain their policies.
  • Those who have yet to establish a policy will find plenty of resources.
  • Those who aren’t interested in adopting a corporate policy but want to educate their employees can find materials on ending distracted driving. 

Most of us believe that cell phones – conversations and texting – are the main culprits in distracted driving.  Studies show that even talking on a “hands free” cell phone still involves concentration and attention to the conversation at hand, often at the expense of the driving task.  However, every driver may or may not let outside influences affect their driving.  Many drivers become distracted in heavy traffic while: applying makeup; reading; listening to loud music or becoming too engaged in conversation.  Cyclists and other drivers, as well as pedestrians must know what part of the road is their territory, and not infringe on other drivers.  

It is our responsibility to be safe drivers, regardless of whether we are going to and from work, or elsewhere.  Always drive defensively; many times it is the other guy that causes an accident.  Here are a few tips for avoiding distractions:

  1. Concentrate on the driving task; this demands our full attention.
  2. Don’t be distracted by things outside your vehicle.
  3. Eliminate distractions inside the car.  Eat and drink, and pre-set your radio station or CD before you start the car.
  4. Again, avoid using your cell phone while driving.  Pull over if you need to answer a call, or better yet, check the message later.  Put your phone on “silent”, so you aren’t tempted to answer it. 
  5. Don’t let the GPS or other navigation devices take your eyes off the road. 

So, let’s start this month off by driving a little safer than usual.  The reward could be your safety and/or that of others.

General Safety Issues

TEEN DRIVER SAFETY – NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH (JUNE 12-18)

1 Comment

From the time they were little kids, we have preached to our children about being careful – watch when you cross the street, don’t talk to strangers, don’t jaywalk, don’t ride your bicycle in an unsafe place, don’t be a bully, listen to your teachers, obey your parents, the list goes on and on.  Everything we have told our children from the time they were toddlers was for their own safety.  It is a big responsibility to teach children right from wrong, and to guide them to grow up to be responsible teens and adults.

Because science explains that the brain doesn’t fully mature until we are in our twenties, it means that some of the decisions young persons make until that time will be very important ones that will determine their safety and well-being.  Teen Driver Safety Week, which is sponsored by the National Safety Council, is held each June to educate and encourage safe behaviors around the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths.  Motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens in the U.S.  More teens lose their lives in motor vehicle crashes than the next three causes combined – homicide, suicide and unintentional drug overdose.  They need to understand this, and also that the risk of being in a car crash is at a lifetime high in the first six to 12 months and 1,000 miles of driving.  This risk can be reduced by a combination of gradual exposure to higher-risk situations and practice under parental supervision.  

Parents are the key to basic safety driving skills for teens.  Here are some great suggestions from State Farm Insurance to begin a good driving instruction program:

  • Review the controls and features of the car.  Make sure your teen knows how each one works:
  • Dashboard controls;
  • Steering wheel and seat adjustment;
  • Mirror adjustment;
  • Turn signals;
  • Headlights;
  • Wipers;
  • Air bags and seat belts;
  • Emergency lights;
  • Parking brake/release;
  • Starting/turning off the engine;
  • Gas, brakes (especially ABS)
  • Warning indicator lights on dashboard.
  • The location of the  registration, insurance card and manual. 

I must admit I did not go over all that with our three teens.  I briefly explained things to them, and then we drove on some low-traffic unpaved roads.  Take your teen to an empty parking lot, and have them practice applying gas and brakes, driving straight, turning, and backing up.

This is the time to remind your teen driver to pay attention to the surroundings by (a)  looking ahead and to the sides; (b) checking mirrors; (c) scanning continuously for hazards, and (d) teaching your teen to keep a clear “safety space” around the car, so there’s room to react to any hazards.  The farther he or she hangs back from the vehicle in front, the better your teen will be able to see what’s ahead.  Seeing better and farther provides extra time to react to changing traffic conditions. 

Graduated Driver Licensing is a proven road to improving teen safety.  GDL is a novice driver licensing system that is proven effective at reducing teen drivers’ high crash risk by 20-40%.  States with more comprehensive GDL systems see a higher reduction in teen crashes.  GDL reduces teen driver exposure to high crash risk situations, such as nighttime driving and teen passengers.  This allows new drivers to build experience and skills in lower-risk situations.  The three stages of GDL licensure are: 1. A learner’s permit that allows driving only while supervised by a fully licensed driver. 2. An intermediate (sometimes provisional) license that allows unsupervised driving under certain restrictions including nighttime and passenger limits. 3. A full license. 

We all learn to be better drivers with experience in different situations.  Today’s drivers have too many distractions; teens need to learn to put those distractions aside and focus on the main goal: getting from point A to point B in one piece.  Any of us can make a wrong decision behind the wheel.  Teens are at jeopardy the most.  They have a unique mix of inexperience, distraction, peer pressure, and the tendency to underestimate risk. 

It’s up the parents and peers to encourage safety to their teens every time they get behind the wheel.  These young people have the right to take their place on the roads, we just have to help them understand the importance of keeping both themselves and other drivers safe at all times.