Our Responsibility On The Road

“It is important to understand that driving is a privilege and not a right”

One of the first steps toward being a responsible and safe driver is to understand the number of risks involved in driving a vehicle and be realistic, thoughtful, and wise when given such a great responsibility.

A vehicle is large, heavy, and potentially very dangerous.

The traffic laws are written to protect the community and all road users, so if someone ignores and keeps breaking them, there are consequences such as fines, suspension, or even revocation of their driver’s license.

If a person is an irresponsible or reckless driver and causes serious injuries or death to others, they can face severe consequences and even prison time.

Stay focused. Driving is primarily a thinking task, and you have a lot of things to think about when you’re behind the wheel: road conditions, your speed and position, observing traffic laws, signs, signals, road markings, following directions, being aware of the cars around you, checking your mirrors — the list goes on. Staying focused on driving — and only driving — is critical to safe driving.

Stay alert. Being alert (not sleepy or under the influence) allows you to react quickly to potential problems — like when the driver in the car ahead slams on the brakes at the last minute. Obviously, alcohol or drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter drugs) affect a driver’s reaction time and judgment. Driving while drowsy has the same effect and is one of the leading causes of crashes. So rest up before your road trip.

To be a responsible driver, you should follow these simple practices:

• Safely share the road with other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
• Never drive when physically or mentally impaired.
• Never become distracted while driving (e.g., never use your cell phone or put on makeup while going).
• Know the traffic laws and follow them (e.g., always use signals indicating when you will turn, stop, or switch lanes and stay within a safe speed).
• Understand that when you have passengers, they depend on safe driving as your top priority.
• Make sure your car is parked legally and not rolling away on a hill or blocking traffic or pedestrians.
• Ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on the streets or highways.
• If you are under 18, know you are accountable to your parent or guardian, who has to cover all the expenses, should you be in an accident that causes any property damage, injuries, or deaths.
• Maintain Your Vehicle. Maintain your vehicles by check ups on tires,brakes,lights,wipers, and fluid levels and make sure your mirrors,windows and outside lights are clean for good visibility.
• Plan Your Route. …
• Don’t drink and drive. …
• Avoid Distractions. …
• Watch Your Speed…