Auto Travel Safety

Auto travel safety is often overlooked among travelers. Weather, time of day and traffic can all affect the safety of road transportation and drivers should always exercise caution behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Avoid Dangerous Distractions

• Never operate a cell phone while driving. cell phone image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com

  Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a dangerous and criminal offense, but drivers also forget that operating a cell phone (either by making calls or by sending text messages) can take a driver's attention away from the road and produce deadly results. Always pull over to the side of the road before dialing or answering a phone, and remain parked until the call is finished.

Preparation and Prevention

• Always keep your car up-to-date with safety inspections. Don't let rattles, noises, or other signs of malfunction continue prior to a long distance trip. Always change the oil every 3,000 miles for optimal vehicle performance. Major car troubles can often be prevented by early detection and routine maintenance.

Driving in Bad Weather

• Snowy conditions require slower speeds and more caution. blizzard image by Galyna Andrushko from Fotolia.com

  Drivers who don't adapt to poor weather conditions, such as snow or rain can cause accidents. If you must drive in bad weather, slow your speed and allow for more distance between cars, in case the vehicle in front of you needs to brake quickly. Make sure your car is prepared to deal with the elements (e.g., you have a snow scraper and a working windshield wipers) and always keep two hands on the wheel.

Passenger Safety

• Take responsibility for the safety of your passengers. Make sure they are wearing seat belts and not causing distractions with loud noises or unnecessary movements.