Dangers of the Road: How to be a Responsible Driver

Every time you hit the road, you are exposed to its inherent risks, and you also have the potential to become one of those risks. You can make a simple explanation for this: you are not the only person using the road or the streets in your neighborhood. And there are machines involved.

Of course, this means you have a responsibility to use the public roads with regard for your and other people’s safety. How can you do that? Here are some tips.

Keep your vehicle in good condition

A car that stalls in the middle of the road can cause accidents. If you get stranded in an unsafe area, you may also be exposed to risks like mugging or getting hit by oncoming traffic. What’s more dangerous is a tire blow-out while on a high-speed lane. Do not neglect your vehicle. Check it regularly, and especially if you will be using it to travel a long distance. Keep the numbers of towing services and your insurance provider in a notebook in your glove compartment, along with the numbers of your next of kin.

Don’t drive if you’re not feeling well

It happens to everyone at some point, not feeling well because of the weather, some food that did not agree with your digestion, or one bottle too many of your favorite beer. Not only are you risking your life by operating a car, but you are also risking the lives of your passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.

If you’ve had too much to drink, ask a sober friend to drive you home, or don’t leave at all; sleep it off. If you are ill, call 911 and get to a medical facility. Include the numbers of your DUI lawyer in Springfield, IL in your notebook, in case you are able to drive but get stopped by a police officer. You may think a DUI is nothing, but it will show up in your records.

Don’t drive too fast

It is common for many people to floor the gas when they think there is no police presence in the area. If you drive too fast and get in an accident because of it, the police is the least of your problems. Over-speeding limits your reaction time substantially. You may have fast reflexes, but other things may affect your safety, such as blown-out tires or failing brakes. So don’t risk it. Always drive within the recommended speed limits.

Driving is a necessity and a privilege in the United States. Don’t risk your life or the life of other people, or at the very least your license by ignoring the limits.