From Start to Finish: Automotive Safety for the Life of Your Vehicle

Automotive safety is much more than exercising caution while driving. In fact, being safe begins before you've even purchased a vehicle. Taking a driver training course or reading up on vehicle reviews are important steps to take before you get behind the wheel. Once you?re ready to drive, safe driving techniques and regular vehicle maintenance are critical to staying safe behind the wheel. AAA has the resources you need to keep you safe throughout your driving career.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Purchasing a Vehicle

  Most people agree that safety is an important consideration when choosing a new vehicle. That?s why AAA offers information on AAA.com to make purchasing a safe vehicle easier. You?ll find vehicle reviews and crash test ratings. If you?re looking at pre-owned vehicles, you can search for an Approved Auto Repair facility in your area and have the vehicle inspected before you purchase. AAA members also receive discounts on CARFAX Vehicle History Reports purchased through AAA.com. These reports include a comprehensive title history indicating if the vehicle has been salvaged, rebuilt, had flood damage, or been classified as a ?lemon? under state law.

• Learning to Drive

  Whether you're learning for the first time or teaching a teenager the rules of the road, there are many things you can do to ensure safety:

  • Start each practice session by checking out the vehicle. Adjust mirrors and seats, and check tires and warning lights, as well as fuel and fluid levels.
  • Before each practice drive, predetermine a route so you can avoid what may seem like last-minute directions. Target specific skills to focus on each session, such as turning, backing up, shifting gears, or parking.
  • Limit early practice sessions to 60 minutes during daylight and clear weather. If frustration or fatigue is mounting, cut your session short.
  • Make sure you know the meaning of road signs and pavement markings, and be aware of potential hazards on the route.
  • Slowly introduce different levels of traffic, from maneuvering in light traffic to maneuvering in moderate traffic. As you gain experience and knowledge, ease into more challenging situations such as merging onto interstates or driving in heavy traffic.
  • You can find more information on driver training by visiting AAA.com

• Obeying the Rules of the Road

  We all know how important it is to obey speed limits and stop lights, but there are other things you can do to stay safe while driving:

  • When leaving for work or an appointment, leave a few minutes early so you're not rushed.
  • Drive with your headlights on, even during the day, so pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers can see you.
  • Be aware of areas such as playgrounds that indicate children could be in the vicinity.
  • Slow down in or near residential areas.
  • Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs that children could dart into the road.
  • Practice extra caution in inclement weather.
  • Make eye contact with pedestrians who are about to cross the street. Be aware of their next steps and make them aware of yours.
  • Make sure you know the law when it comes to using portable devices, such as cell phones, PDAs, or GPS units. The safest option is to refrain from using these devices while your vehicle is in motion. GPS units should be programmed in advance to ensure you?re not distracted by trying to input a destination while driving. In the event you do use a cell phone while driving, use a hands-free headset to help keep you focused on the road. Typing or sending text messages or e-mails while driving is very dangerous and should be avoided at all times.
  • Avoid being distracted while driving by things like loud music, too many passengers, or trying to do other tasks.
  • Avoid driving while drowsy, and never drive after consuming alcohol.

• Keeping Your Vehicle in Top Shape

  Performing regular maintenance on your vehicle will not only extend its life, but will also make the vehicle much safer. In addition to regularly scheduled oil changes and other maintenance listed in your owner's manual, don't forget about these items:

  • Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Over or underinflated tires pose a safety risk and can cause serious damage or injury if they fail while driving. AAA recommends checking your tire pressure once a month, even if your vehicle has a built-in tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Replace your windshield wipers regularly. Rain and snow decrease visibility while driving. If your wipers are not in good condition, the problem only gets worse.
  • Check and refill washer fluid. A clean windshield is necessary for you to see all potential threats while driving.
  • Have cracked windshields or windows fixed or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further breakage and possible injury.

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