Most people use motor vehicles everyday to get from one location to another. This includes cars, pick-up trucks, SUVs, commercial trucks, school buses and long distance travel buses. Safely operating the vehicle should be every drivers primary concern. Be mindful of distractions while driving. Distractions can include children in the vehicle, texting or talking on a cell phone, weather conditions, adjusting the radio, eating/drinking, and smoking while driving.
Tips for Traffic Congestion:
- Be mindful when approaching the scene of an accident that has occurred. Traffic may be in a “stop-and-go” pattern. Be sure to leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you for a complete stop on short notice.
- Look for signs indicating a detour away from or around the incident.
- Follow all detour signs for a route change and be mindful that law enforcement may be directing the traffic.
Hazardous driving conditions can include wet or slippery roads from rain, ice, or snow. Below are some tips for remaining safe during these conditions:
- Listen carefully to your local weather reports for driving conditions. When forecasters recommend staying off the roadways only venture out if it is an emergency or if it is absolutely necessary.
- If you must travel be sure to wear your seat belt and properly restrain any children traveling with you.
- If there is sleet, freezing rain, snow or ice be sure to use caution in areas that freeze quickly (i.e. intersections, bridges, and overpasses).
- If you are traveling through heavy rains or flooding conditions remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”. It only takes 6 inches of fast-moving flood water to knock over an adult and 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car.
- Be sure to travel with an emergency kit in your trunk that includes blankets, a first aid kit, jumper cables, food, water and a car charger for your cell phone.
- If possible, be sure that your vehicle has a full tank of gas