How to Develop Road Safety Skills

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Drive only when sober and rested.

   Pull over and rest or let someone else drive if you feel drowsy.
   
   Stay alert at all times.
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   Step 2: Look ahead of you and around you constantly as you drive.

   Check the rear view and side view mirrors every 6 to 10 seconds.
   
   Anticipating danger is a key component of defensive driving. , Look around for vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists.
   
   Take extra care and look both ways at railroad crossings. , Never text or talk on the phone.
   
   Make young passengers behave and stay calm.
   
   Don't spend a lot of time adjusting the radio or stereo.
   
   Pull over to read maps or consult the GPS system.
   
   Don't drink or eat while driving. ,, Watch for the vehicle ahead of you to pass a sign or other landmark, then allow either 3 or 6 seconds for your car to reach the landmark. ,, Don't react if someone cuts you off, gestures or honks his horn at you. , Turn on your blinker in plenty of time to signal drivers and pedestrians. , Don't drive if the bottle says not to operate machinery while taking the medicine. ,,,,,,
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   Step 3: Slow down and look both ways before driving through an intersection.

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   Step 4: Minimize distractions in the automobile.

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   Step 5: Wear your safety belt.

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   Step 6: Stay back far enough from the car in front of you -- 3 seconds in good road conditions

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   Step 7: 6 seconds if you're in heavy traffic or bad weather.

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   Step 8: Change lanes and back up only after checking your blind spot by looking over your shoulder for traffic or obstacles.

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   Step 9: Hang back or pull over and wait if you see an erratic or dangerous driver.

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    Step 10: Use directional signals when turning at a corner or making a lane change.

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    Step 11: Consult with your doctor or pharmacist about side effects if you are taking new medications.

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    Step 12: Avoid driving

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    Step 13: when possible

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    Step 14: during inclement weather conditions such as rain

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    Step 15: snow or sleet.

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    Step 16: Avoid driving at night if you have poor night vision.

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    Step 17: Make sure your car is in good mechanical condition

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    Step 18: the tires are inflated and in good condition

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    Step 19: and the car has enough oil and fuel to arrive at your destination.

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    Step 20: Plan your route ahead of time if you are traveling in unfamiliar territory.

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    Step 21: Locate and practice operating the emergency brake in case the brakes fail.

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    Step 22: Clean the windows regularly so you can see clearly.

Detailed Guide

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