Obey The Law
- Observe speed limits.
- Obey traffic signs and signals.
- Pass other vehicles only on the left.
- Signal before changing lanes.
- Never pass a stopped school bus.
- Yield to drivers who have right-of-way.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Use your seat belt.
Drive Sensibly And Defensively
- Correctly position mirrors and driver’s seat before you start.
- Never tailgate. Stay at least three car lengths behind the driver ahead of you.
- Don’t insist on the right-of-way if the other driver won’t yield it.
- Dim your bright lights for oncoming cars and those ahead.
- Be aware of what’s happening several vehicle lengths ahead and behind you.
Expect the Unexpected
- Anticipate reckless behavior from other drivers.
- Anticipate people or animals darting into the road.
- Anticipate swerving cyclists.
- Anticipate potholes or debris in road.
Take Bad Weather Precautions
Improve visibility by:
- using wipers, defroster, and headlights
- wearing sunglasses
- clearing snow from roof and windows
When visibility is poor or roadways are slick:
- reduce speed
- increase distance between you and the car ahead
- brake gently
- watch out for puddles, icy patches, and sudden pockets of fog
- if you skid, steer gently into the turn; do not brake or accelerate
Maintain Your Vehicle
- Inspect before driving every time.
- Be sure scheduled maintenance checks are carried out on time.
- Be alert to below-par performance; have problems attended to promptly.
- Don’t drive too fast over bumpy terrain.
- Don’t make unnecessarily sharp turns or sudden stops and starts.