When you sit in the driver’s seat, you are taking on a huge responsibility the minute you turn the key on and pull out of your driveway. The first thing that you should do is to buckle your seatbelt, a simple step that is often complained about but is very important. The seat belt can save your life in case of a wreck, and can prevent you from being thrown out of the vehicle or through the windshield. It is also a good example to give if you have your children in the car with you.
Next, make sure that your seat is set back a good distance from the air bag in your steering wheel. The manufacturer will have a recommended distance to make sure that the airbag gives you maximum protection but does not cause injury. If you have a baby, do not put them in the front passenger seat where there is an airbag. If it deploys during an accident, it can cause injury to the child. They should be securely fastened into the back seat. All passengers should buckle up, front and back. This requirement is being strictly enforced in many states, and you could receive a ticket for not buckling up.
If you have smaller children in the back, make sure that you have a working child lock that is engaged on the back door and windows. This can prevent your little ones from playing with them during travel, and avoid any accidents. Also, there are devices on the market that can prevent them from unbuckling their seatbelt, keeping them firmly buckled in. When buckling a child in, make sure that the belt is properly positioned across their waist and across the chest and shoulder. Teaching them how to use it properly will prevent injury in case of a collision.
While driving, it is also crucial to keep your radio to a lower level so that you can still hear the traffic noise around you. If an ambulance comes up behind you, you will be prepared to pull over. This can be helped as well by glancing at your mirrors every so often to check the traffic behind you. You often will see an emergency vehicle before you hear it.
These tips will help you and your family to develop good habits while riding, and will keep you safe as you go to your destination.
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