There are a number of driving hazards you can encounter when you’re behind the wheel. Some are environmental (weather, bad roads), while others are of your own making (talking on the phone while driving). To keep yourself safe on the road, here are a number of things to watch out for:
Bad Roads. Look out for potholes, puddles (they can hide deep holes), slippery pavements and crossing animals. If you’re driving near the mountains, be aware of falling debris.
Driver Mistakes. Don’t drive when you’re overtired, if you forgot your glasses or if you’re feeling dizzy. Don’t talk on the phone while driving. If you want to drink coffee, make sure you have a holder so you can quickly return the cup to a secure position. If you’re eating, do it from an open container, so you don’t have to maneuver to get things out of a small bag. Make sure your hands at free at all times and pay attention to your surroundings.
Weather. Heavy rain, fog and snow or ice are probably the most dangerous conditions you can drive in. Always check the weather advisory for recommendations on when to stay off the roads. At other times, make safety a priority. Drive slow and take breaks if necessary. If the storm gets too bad, find a place to park or a rest stop where you can wait it out.