If you own a car you are bound to come across a car collision at least once. However scary this may sound, it is truth. You may say "I drive the car with caution and never break any laws". You are missing out on a vital point: you are not alone on the street. You have to share it with truckers, bikers, other car drivers and trotters. So, an accident is not always caused due to your negligence. It may happen due to someone else’s error. As a part of driving training you have learned many maneuvers but none of them can be matched with the real riding conditions. It is always wise to be ready for a car collision and take actions when you feel something is going to happen.
The step by step process mentioned below will help you get through a prospect of collision avoiding any injuries or death. However, every vehicle is different, so modify the guidelines based on your relevance.
Seat Belt:
Seat belt is a very important safety precaution, you should wear it all the while you drive a car. Many drivers have gone unscathed due to their seat belts. When wearing the seat belt, make sure the belt is fitted low on your hip bones and the center belt should go all the way round the center of the chest. You should arrange for proper kids restrains until they have grown enough to wear proper seat belts.
Good Posture:
When you are driving a car always maintain the best possible posture. Before starting the vehicle you should make sure that the seat is enables you to reach the steering wheel and floor petals easily. These are essential for any evasive moves.
Warning Lights:
Before you start the car make sure that all the warning lights such as: engine coolant, gas line and engine are switched off. Also check whether the tire lines and air within it is fine or not. These precautions will make sure that the car does not have any problems.
Watchful Eyes:
You might feel you are an expert driver, but remember there are other people on the road. It is important to fix your vision at one point. If this makes you sleepy then you can look around once in a while. Always keep a close monitor on the rear view mirrors and judge the speed of cars coming from behind. Having an idea of where everyone is will help you drive safely.
Changing Lanes:
There will be parking areas and side streets where the vehicles ahead will pull up. It is important to check the blind spots carefully before you make the move for changing lanes.
Side by Side with another Vehicle:
When you are driving beside another vehicle for a few minutes there is always a risk. Try to go ahead or let them pass and drop back in such situations. There are many drivers who do not check for blind spots and that may lead to a collision.
At Intersections:
Even when there is a Green light on the signal, you should look either way before making a move, because there are many causal drivers who do not pay attention.
Emergency Vehicles:
If there are emergency vehicles around, give them enough room to pass. The emergency vehicles are in a hurry, so they may ignore red light and even move opposite to the normal traffic direction. Start planning as soon as you hear the siren.
Signal Lights:
Before changing lanes always use the signal lights. This will give a clear indication to the other drivers that you are looking to change lanes and they will have scopes to adjust.
Safe Distance:
When you press the brake it will take a short time to stop the car. Why take the risk, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead depending on your speed.
Turns:
Keep your speed low at turns and steep roads. There are many blind turns that can sell you a raw deal. So, better wait and watch what approaches from the other end.
Hope these guidelines will keep you and your fellow riders safe.
