Safe Driving Resolutions for 2022
The new year is here, and there’s no better time to start building good habits, especially while driving. Whether driving alone or with passengers, consider making safer driving decisions one of your top priorities in 2022.
By making better driving decisions, you ensure the safety and well-being of yourself, your passengers, and those around you. Because at the end of the day, there’s nothing we all want more than to stay out of harm’s way while we get to our destination.
Here are six safe driving resolutions to start the new year off right:
- Keep yourself in good health. First and foremost, safe driving begins with you. A good night’s sleep is crucial to staying alert while driving on the road, as inadequate sleep can cause cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment is when a person has difficulty with reaction, coordination, and judgment which can ultimately lead to drowsy driving. According to the CDC, studies have shown that going too long without sleep can affect your driving in the same way as drinking too much alcohol. It’s important to learn the signs of drowsy driving and what you should do if you do feel sleep-deprived before getting behind the wheel.
- Stay up-to-date with routine maintenance. Safe driving is only half the battle while out on the roads. You want to make sure your vehicle is in good shape by performing routine maintenance every year. This includes oil changes, checking tire pressures, checking brake pads, refilling car fluids, and getting regular tune-ups. A well-maintained car is less likely to fail on you while you are out driving, therefore keeping you and your passengers safe.
- Avoid texting and driving. Using your smartphone to text while driving is extremely dangerous as it distracts you from staying focused on the road. It is crucial that you always remain alert of the road ahead and other drivers around you as someone can switch lanes or brake instantly, and you’ll want all the reaction time you can get. Stop the harmful habit by putting your smartphone away, or on “Do Not Disturb” mode before you start driving. For more information on the dangers of texting and driving, click here.
- Adhere to your state’s headlight laws. Headlight laws vary state-to-state, so be mindful of when to turn them on, especially if you drive across state borders. Take advantage of your vehicle’s automatic headlight setting if it has that feature so that you no longer have to manually turn them on when it gets dark. Photoelectric sensors in the headlights detect ambient light levels and will activate the headlights automatically. You should also make sure that your headlights are on when your windshield wipers are on and when it’s foggy outside. Read more on Pennsylvania’s headlight laws here.
- Use turn signals properly. The correct way to use your turn signal is at least 100 feet before you make a turn, switch lanes, enter a parking spot, or pull over. By using your turn signals properly, you are giving other drivers around you enough time to see your signal and drive accordingly.
- Use your GPS safely. Before driving to a new or unfamiliar destination, get into the habit of entering the address while still parked and getting a good overview of the route. In addition, avoid the distraction of looking down at your GPS by activating voice navigation to guide you as you drive. This will keep you alert and more focused on the road. Read more on how to safely use your GPS while driving here.
We should all strive to keep ourselves and the roads safe by following these resolutions. However, roads can be tricky to navigate during the winter months, so click here for additional safe driving tips during this time of year.
