TOP TIPS TO CARE FOR YOUR CAR’S BRAKE SYSTEM

The health of your brake system is crucial to the performance and safety of your car. Poor brake system maintenance not only compromises the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle, but is also a major cause of road accidents.

The brake system is somewhat complex, but fairly easy to maintain. It is critical that you have your brake system inspected regularly and necessary repairs done on time. Some of the key components in the brake system include brake pads, brake lines, master cylinder, rotors and calipers.

Key Brake System Maintenance Tips

1. Have Brake Pads and Rotors Checked Regularly

Due to its nature of operation the braking system endures a lot of wear. Brake pads and rotors form the point of contact between the braking system and the tires. These two components wear more quickly and hence require more attention and maintenance. Brake pads endure a lot of heat which causes a lot of wear. It’s critical that you use high-quality brake pads that offer sufficient resistance to wear.

If you notice you need to apply a lot of pressure to your brake pedal, an increase in your stopping distance or a burning smell you need to have your brake pads and rotors checked.

2. Get a Brake Fluid Flush

When you step on your brake pedal, pressure builds up and is transmitted through brake fluid from the master cylinder, via brake lines and into the calipers. These in turn transmits this pressure to the brake pads and rotors. Brake fluid is therefore a critical component of the braking system since it acts as the messenger of the braking system.

Unfortunately, with time it attracts moisture, which can damage your braking system. This moisture corrodes the metal components of the braking system, reduces the boiling point of the fluid hence compromising the effectiveness of the braking system.

3. Have Your Brake Lines Bled

Apart from getting a brake fluid flush, bleeding of brake lines is also important so as to remove the excess air. When air gets trapped in the brake lines, it compromises the efficiency of the braking system.

4. Replace or Upgrade Brake System Components

From time to time you will need to replace some components of your braking system. This is an opportune time to upgrade to specialized or higher-performance components. Some of the popular brake system upgrades are slotted disc brakes which are more heat resistant and quieter ceramic pads that also emit less brake dust.

5. Brake System Care

There are some external factors that can cause excessive wear to your braking system. Carrying too much weight and heavy breaking are just but some. It’s important that you avoid such situations to preserve your brakes and chances of brake failure.

TIPS

How to drive in floods and standing water

Driving through floodwater and heavy rain can feel quite perilous at the best of times, often catching out newer drivers or those who don’t have any experience with driving in adverse conditions.

With our quick and easy guide though, you’ll feel better-equipped to navigate these tricky driving situations.

How to drive in floods and standing water

If you hear there’s flooding on the way, try to move your car to higher ground to stop it from getting damaged. Water plays havoc with vehicle electrics and could cause a number of issues (like your airbag suddenly deploying for no reason). Otherwise, follow our tips below:

  • Try to avoid standing water if you can.
  • Don’t drive into flood water that’s moving or more than 10cm (4 inches) deep. Let approaching cars pass first.
  • Drive slowly and steadily so you don’t make a bow wave.
  • Test your brakes as soon as you can afterwards.
  • Fast-moving water is very powerful – take care or your car could be swept away.

If you do get stuck in flood water, it’s usually best to wait in the car and call for help rather than try to get out.

TIPS

Things to Avoid Doing to a Newly Painted Car

Paint jobs can be so exciting – seeing your car looking brand new and clean all over again. As exciting as it is, paint jobs cost money. Therefore, you need to be careful with your newly painted ride.

So, you just got your car painted at a body and paint service in Penang, and you get the nod to take your new-looking car home.

Well, don’t get tempted into thinking you can do as you please with your car, as you might ruin the freshly painted ride.

This blog post will show you things to avoid doing in a newly painted car to keep it fresh for a very long time.

 

1. Don’t Leave the Paint Shop Immediately
As soon as the job is done, take your car under broad daylight to look out for defects that may need a rework. If you find any defects, like different shades of colors, it’s advisable to wait until it is fully cured before you try to fix the fault.

2. Don’t wash the car immediately
Yeah, you’d be surprised how many people take their freshly painted ride to a car wash. Don’t do this – as fresh paints need proper curing, and you shouldn’t use soap on the car until after a month (30 days).

If you must wash, take it home, and rinse with cold water, and a microfiber mitt in the shade. Avoid keeping the car in the sun for an extended period.

After washing, use a microfiber towel or chamois to wipe gently. Trust me; you don’t want water marks or swirls on a shiny new finish.

3. Avoid unnecessary drives
Taking your freshly painted car for long, unnecessary rides will open up your new paint job to harsh environmental conditions before it is fully cured. It is advisable and safe to leave your car in a garage for about two months.

Only drive when necessary and during fair weather conditions. During this waiting period, you could use taxi services or use a second car if you have one. Your patience will pay off.

4. Don’t wax your car
There’s a general belief that waxing a newly painted automobile is harmless and will protect the paint job. A professional Honda car service in Penang will advise otherwise, as the curing process involves the paint gassing off itself.

Waxing your freshly-painted car will hinder the color from going through the gassing process. So, be patient and wait for the car to be fully cured. Wait for about sixty (60) days before waxing your car. Also, ensure you use only real carnauba wax your vehicle when ready.

5. Never leave your freshly painted car, outdoors, or under a tree
Severe and unsightly damages can come from leaving your newly painted car, outdoors, or under a tree. Tree sap, bird droppings, and acid rain can damage your new paint job.

Even dramatic changes in temperature can also affect curing and paint adhesion. During the curing period, keep your car in a garage or at least a proper shelter.

 

TIPS

5 Important Things You Need to Know About Your Spare Tire

If you experience a flat tire, you can switch it out with a spare. However, driving on a spare tire is only a temporary solution. If you wait too long to replace your spare tire with a long-term solution, you could encounter a wide range of problems on the road.

What Should You Do If You Experience a Flat Tire?

If you hear a bumping or thumping sound coming from your car, you may be dealing with a flat tire. When this happens, remain calm, activate your car’s emergency flashers, slow down, and pull off to the side of the road. If possible, pull your vehicle into a parking lot. Or else pull onto the right shoulder as far as you can.

Remember, driving on a flat tire is dangerous, and it can cause long-term damage to your car. It also puts you and other drivers at risk of an accident or collision. So, when faced with a flat tire, exit the road until you can either replace the tire with a spare or get help from others.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

The length of time you can drive on a spare tire depends on the tire itself. In fact, many spare tire options are available, including full-size, donut, and run-flat varieties.

Matching and non-matching full-size spare tires are the same size as the tires currently on your car. A matching full-size spare tire is exactly the same as the other tires on your car, while a non-matching spare is only the same size as your vehicle’s tires.

Comparatively, donut spare tires are narrow and compact, and they are designed to fit in the trunk of your car. Donut spare tires typically last for about 50 to 70 miles, and shouldn’t be driven at high speeds when using these tires.

Run-flat tires are commonly found on BMW and MINI cars. They are often stronger and more durable than other types of tires. If a run-flat tire gets punctured while you are driving, you can continue to drive safely for about 50 miles before your tire needs to be replaced.

5 Important Things You Need to Know About Your Spare Tire

If you experience a flat tire, you can switch it out with a spare. However, driving on a spare tire is only a temporary solution. If you wait too long to replace your spare tire with a long-term solution, you could encounter a wide range of problems on the road.

What Should You Do If You Experience a Flat Tire?

If you hear a bumping or thumping sound coming from your car, you may be dealing with a flat tire. When this happens, remain calm, activate your car’s emergency flashers, slow down, and pull off to the side of the road. If possible, pull your vehicle into a parking lot. Or else pull onto the right shoulder as far as you can.

Remember, driving on a flat tire is dangerous, and it can cause long-term damage to your car. It also puts you and other drivers at risk of an accident or collision. So, when faced with a flat tire, exit the road until you can either replace the tire with a spare or get help from others.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

The length of time you can drive on a spare tire depends on the tire itself. In fact, many spare tire options are available, including full-size, donut, and run-flat varieties.

Matching and non-matching full-size spare tires are the same size as the tires currently on your car. A matching full-size spare tire is exactly the same as the other tires on your car, while a non-matching spare is only the same size as your vehicle’s tires.

Comparatively, donut spare tires are narrow and compact, and they are designed to fit in the trunk of your car. Donut spare tires typically last for about 50 to 70 miles, and shouldn’t be driven at high speeds when using these tires.

Run-flat tires are commonly found on BMW and MINI cars. They are often stronger and more durable than other types of tires. If a run-flat tire gets punctured while you are driving, you can continue to drive safely for about 50 miles before your tire needs to be replaced.

How Far Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Tire manufacturers often put a 50-mile rating on their spare tires, which means you can safely drive with one of these spare tires on your car for up to 50 miles. Some tire manufacturers provide spare tires that perform for up to 70 miles, too. Check your tires for the exact mileage rating.

The quality of your spare tire dictates how far you can drive on it. For instance, a donut spare tire tends to be less durable than a full-size matching or non-matching spare tire. As such, a donut spare tire is more susceptible to damage than a full-size alternative if you are driving a long distance.

How Fast Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Generally, 50 mph is the fastest you should drive on a spare tire. Although there are exceptions where the manufacturer states their tires can travel greater than 50 mph, doing so would increase the risk of a blowout, especially if the spare tire has been previously used. Thus, you should try to keep your car speed under 50 mph until you can replace your spare tire.

Spare Tires: What You Need to Know

You can experience a flat tire at any time, so it is crucial to pick up a spare tire that you can use as needed. As you search for the right spare tire for your car, here are five important things you need to know:

1. Spare Tires Must Be Maintained

Much in the way your car tires require periodic maintenance, you need to evaluate the condition of your spare tire regularly. To do so, you should check the pressure of your car’s spare tire every time you have your vehicle’s tires inspected and rotated.

2. Spare Tires Sometimes Get Recalled

Tire manufacturers sometimes recall their tires, so you need to keep an eye out for potential recalls. Recalls may be issued on all types of tires, and you can use the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association “Tire Recall Lookup” tool to track tire recalls online.

3. Spare Tires May Need to Be Replaced

A spare tire may need to be replaced, even if you have never used it. In most instances, a car’s spare tire should be replaced approximately every eight years. Your car’s manual can provide details about how frequently you should replace your vehicle’s spare tire.

4. Spare Tires May Activate Your Car’s Warning Lights 

When you place a spare tire on your car and start driving, your vehicle may activate the brake and anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning lights on your vehicle’s instrument panel. This can occur if a spare tire rotates faster than the other tires on your car. In this scenario, don’t panic. Instead, continue to drive safely, reach your destination, and replace your spare tire with a long-lasting solution.

5. Spare Tires Must Be Changed Properly

If you are unsure about how to replace a flat tire with a spare, there is no need to leave anything to chance. Because if you make a mistake when changing a flat tire and try to drive a car with an improperly installed spare, you could put yourself and others in danger.

If you are struggling to change a flat tire, reach out to a family member or friend for help. You can also contact roadside assistance if it is available via your insurance company or get in touch with a tow company for support.

A spare tire is crucial, and you should always keep one in your car. That way, if you experience a flat tire, you can use your spare to help you get where you want to go.

TIPS

What Are the 10 Common Causes of Car Overheating?

A car overheating is one of the common problems car owners and drivers face. The cooling system of your car is always under pressure and high temperature that may cause engine overheating problems over time.

 

Here are ten common causes that lead to a car engine overheating:

1. Leaks in the Cooling System

If you have a leak in the cooling system of your car, the coolant drips through the puncture, and air enters the system through the leak. This causes an airlock in the cooling system and makes it difficult for the coolant to push through the system to reach the engine, thus causing it to overheat.</p

2. Incorrect Coolant Concentration

Always use the correct type of coolant in your vehicle as well as remember to use the right mixture of coolant and distilled water.

3. Loose Coolant Hose Clamp

Having a loose clamp on your car coolant hose can also be a reason for engine overheating. The clamps tend to loosen up or even break over time, so be sure to replace them when you notice it loosening.

4. A Faulty Thermostat

If you have a faulty thermostat that remains closed, the coolant will not be able to pass through the system. This can result in your car engine overheating.

5. Clogged or Cracked Car Radiator

A car’s radiator pulls heat away from the rest of the cooling system. If it is not working correctly due to leaks and clogging, it can lead to car overheating.

6. Worn Out or Burst Hoses

Hoses that are worn out or have cracks will leave you with a leaky engine that will obstruct the coolant’s flow through the system and cause car overheating.

The primary function of a radiator fan is to pull air across the radiator to help reduce the coolant’s temperature. Therefore, if you have a faulty radiator fan, it will lead to engine overheating.

8. Loose or Broken Belts

If a belt is loose or broken, it will not maintain the correct volume of coolant flow and cause overheating.

9. A Faulty Water Pump

A water pump is often considered as the heart of your cooling system. If it’s not operating correctly, it can cause your vehicle to overheat.

10. Low Oil Level

Engine oil helps with the cooling process and avoids the buildup of excessive heat. It also keeps various parts of the engine properly lubricated, reduces friction, and overheating. So, your car can overheat if your oil levels are low.

TIPS

5 Tips to Keep Your Tires Cool This Summer

Without a doubt, extreme temperatures can affect your car, including your tires. Tires expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall, and they typically can handle those variations without much problem.

Yet, those temperature extremes can also lead to tire failure, which may happen at the most inopportune time, such as when you are on the highway far from home.

Taking care of your tires will ensure that your trip goes as planned, barring any other problems that may suddenly arise. To that end, we have listed some of the more useful tips to help keep your tires cool this summer.

Tire Care Tips for Summer

1. Inflate your tires to the proper level.

What confounds not a few drivers are the inflation rates for tires. On the sidewalls themselves, there are recommended inflation levels embossed by the manufacturer.

However, the inflation rate you should use or PSI is what the car manufacturer identifies as being correct. In this case, it is information found in your owner’s manual or on a placard located on the driver’s door jamb or in the glove box.

2. Purchase a quality tire pressure gauge.

There are tire pressure gauges and then there are tire pressures gauges. Some gauges are cheaply made and may not render a correct number. Others are better constructed and will deliver the most accurate reading every time.

3. Check your tires when they are cold.

To get an accurate reading on air pressure, only check your tires when they are still cold. Drive more than a mile to a tire pump and you will get an inaccurate reading. That reading may cause you to over-inflate your tires, which can lead to premature wear.

In a worst-case scenario, it could also lead to tire failure.

4. Be consistent with your tire care.

Tires, like the rest of your car, need maintenance. You should rotate your tires about once every 6,000 miles or twice per year. The front end should be aligned if you have hit potholes and the tires may need to be balanced from time to time.

In between, you should inspect the tires and check inflation levels. A monthly check is typically sufficient, but do this more often if you drive a lot.

5. Be mindful of hard-to-find punctures.

If one tire is constantly losing air, that’s a sure sign that it has a puncture and may eventually fail. On closer inspection, you may find that the tire has a nail, hidden away within the grooves or otherwise out of sight. Remove the nail and seal the puncture. You can do this yourself or take it to a garage for work.

TIPS

How To Know If Your Car Is Leaking Gas

Is your car leaking gas? If so, it’s important to find out where the leak is coming from and how to fix it. Otherwise, you could be putting yourself and others at risk.

In this article, we’ll show you how to identify and fix a gas leak in a car. A gas leak in a car is when fuel escapes from the system through a hole or crack.

Can You Drive A Car With A Gas Leak?

It’s not safe to drive a car with a gas leak. If the leak is bad enough, you could run out of gas and be stranded on the side of the road. Even if the leak is not that bad, you are still wasting gas (and money) every time you drive. It can lead to several problems, including:

1.     Reduced gas mileage

When your car leaks gas, it is not running as efficiently as it could be. This leads to reduced gas mileage and increased emissions.

2.     Engine damage

If the gas leak comes from the engine, it could cause severe damage.

3.     Fire hazard

A gas leak is a fire hazard. If there is a spark, the gas could ignite and cause an explosion. So, if you think your car is leaking gas, getting it fixed as soon as possible is important.

What Can Cause A Gas Leak In A Car?

A gas leak in your car can be a serious problem, and it is important to know what can cause it. Here are some of the most common causes of gas discharge in cars:

1. Faulty Fuel Tank

A faulty fuel tank can often cause gas discharge. If your fuel tank is damaged, it can cause gasoline to leak out.

2. Loose Fuel Cap

Another common cause of gas discharge is a loose fuel cap. If your fuel cap is not tight, it can allow gasoline to escape from the tank.

3. Leaking Fuel Line

Gasoline can also leak from a damaged or leaking fuel line. Fuel lines can become damaged over time, and if they are not properly maintained, they can develop leaks.

4. Damaged Carburetor

A damaged carburetor can also cause a gas leak. The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and gasoline to create the fuel mixture that powers your engine. If it is damaged, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

5. Faulty Intake Manifold

The intake manifold is another part of the car that can cause a gas leak. The intake manifold draws air into the engine and also mixes it with gasoline. If the intake manifold is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

A damaged carburetor can also cause a gas leak. The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and gasoline to create the fuel mixture that powers your engine. If it is damaged, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

6. Cracked Exhaust Manifold

A gas leak can also be caused by a cracked exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold collects the exhaust gases from the engine and directs them out of the car. If the manifold is cracked, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

7. Damaged Fuel Injectors

Gasoline can also leak from damaged fuel injectors. The fuel injectors are responsible for injecting gasoline into the engine. If they are damaged, they can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

8. Leaking Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is what pumps gasoline from the tank to the engine. When the fuel pump is leaking, it can allow gasoline to leak into the engine.

9. Faulty Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the oxygen content of the exhaust gases. If the sensor is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

10. Damaged Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is responsible for converting the toxic gases in the exhaust into less harmful gases. If the converter is damaged, gasoline can leak into the engine.

These are just some of the most common causes of car gas leaking. If you think you have a gas discharge, it is essential to have it checked out by a mechanic immediately. Gas leaking can be hazardous and can cause serious damage to your car.

How To Fix A Gas Leak In A Car

If you have a gas leak in your car, it’s important to take care of it right away. A gas leak can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire. Here are some tips on how to fix a gas leak in your car.

1.     Find the source of the leak

If you see gasoline leaking from your car, it’s important to find the source of the leak. The most common place for a gas leak is at the fuel line. Check the fuel line to see if there are any cracks or leaks.

2.     Replace the damaged part

If you find a crack in the fuel line, you will need to replace the damaged part. You can buy a new fuel line at your local auto parts store.

3.     Check for leaks in other areas

Once you have replaced the fuel line, it’s important to check for leaks in other areas of your car. Check the hoses and fittings to make sure they are tight. Also, check the gas tank to see if there are any leaks.

4.     Fix any other leaks

If you find any other leaks, it’s important to fix them as soon as possible. Leaks in the exhaust system can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire.

5.     Check for leaks regularly

It’s important to check for leaks regularly. Gas discharge can be dangerous and can cause your car to catch on fire. So, it’s important to check for leaks often and to fix them as soon as possible.

6.     Be safe

If you have a gas leak, it is important to protect yourself. Gasoline is flammable and can cause your car to catch on fire. So, it’s important to be careful when handling gasoline. If you see gasoline leaking from your car, don’t try to fix it yourself. Call a tow truck or a mechanic to help you.

Signs Of A Gas Leak In A Car

When you’re driving, the last thing you want to think about is your car leaking gas. But, if you smell gasoline while you’re on the road, it’s important to take action immediately. Here are some signs of a gas leak in a car so you can be prepared:

1.     The smell of gasoline

This is the most obvious sign that there may be a gas leak in your car. If you notice a strong gasoline smell, pull over and investigate immediately.

2.     Lower fuel efficiency

If your car is leaking gas, it will have to refuel more often. Keep track of your mileage and how much gas you’re using to see if there’s a drop in fuel efficiency.

3.     Higher engine temperature

A gas leak can cause your engine to run hotter than usual. If you notice the temperature gauge on your dashboard climbing, pull over and check for a leak.

4.     Engine misfires

Another symptom of a gas leak is engine misfires. If your car starts to sputter or stall, it could be because there’s not enough gas reaching the engine.

5.     Visual leaks

If you can see gasoline dripping from your car, that’s a sure sign of a leak. Check under the hood and around the fuel tank for any signs of a leak.

5.     Visual leaks

If you can see gasoline dripping from your car, that’s a sure sign of a leak. Check under the hood and around the fuel tank for any signs of a leak.

TIPS

5 Tips & Tricks to Keep Your Car’s Transmission Healthy

Automatic transmission issues can take place in numerous forms. Each symptom can have a number of probable causes, some involving extensive repairs and some only needing an alteration or minimal service. Here are some simple precautions you can take to keep your transmission in tip-top shape.

1. Schedule Routine Maintenance.

This is vital to the long-term performance of your vehicle. Change your transmission fluid every 15,000 miles or once a year.

2. Keep Up With Transmission Flushes.

Changing your fluids is essential! Low fluids mean future difficulties. Be sure to address low transmission fluid as quickly as possible and avoid driving your vehicle when fluid is below the recommended level. A simple seal replacement could fix the issue and save you money on repairs in the future.

3. Stop Completely Before Shifting From Reverse To Drive.

When backing out of a parking spot, or anytime you’re in reverse, be sure to stop completely before shifting into drive. We all become fearful when we hear that frightful “engine drop.” Attempting to come to a complete stop between gears will prevent that unwarranted strain.

4. Don’t Ride The Brake.

When driving with your foot on the brake pedal, your transmission has to work harder. Also, utilize your emergency brake when parking on an incline to reduce stress on the parking linkage.

5. Keep Your Engine Accurately Tuned.

An issue with engine functionality can, at times, show symptoms comparable to a transmission problem as well as strain the transmission itself. A well running engine works hand in hand with a well running transmission.

Investing in the maintenance of your automatic transmission as well as receiving thorough inspections from your professional technician will only benefit you and the life span of your vehicle. When in doubt, always ask technical advice to ensure your transmission is serviced and repaired both correctly and economically.

TIPS

How to Stay Safe Driving Home From Fourth of July Festivities

Ah, the Fourth of July. Full of picnics, parties, swimming, boating, and fireworks. The perfect day.

Then comes the drive home.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the Fourth of July is the deadliest day of the year when it comes to vehicle crashes. Why? Four reasons.

  1. More vehicles are on the road.
  2. More drivers are driving in areas beyond their regular commute.
  3. More people are using their cell phones while driving.
  4. More people have been drinking throughout the day.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that one-third of all automobile accidents are due to impaired drivers. Even if they don’t hit anyone directly, they cause wrecks. They drive erratically, speeding up and slowing down, swerving, weaving, and crossing into other lanes. Their times are diminished. Usually they’re drowsy from too much alcohol and often fall asleep at the wheel.

That’s why it’s so important to be especially defensive when driving home from your Fourth of July holiday. Here are the top 10 tips to help you do so:

  1. Stay Where You Are
    If possible, don’t drive at all. If it’s a three-day weekend and you’re spending it out of town, stay overnight at a motel or campground and drive home the following morning.
  2. Don’t Ride Your Motorcycle
    Leave your bike at home and drive your car instead. Motorcyclists are at particular risk on the Fourth of July since it’s the middle of summer. Even if you wear a regulation helmet and protective clothing, you’re still far more vulnerable to being involved in a wreck than if you were in a car.
  3. Drive Home Early
    The earlier you drive on the Fourth of July, the better. The later you leave for home, the likelier you will encounter impaired drivers.
  4. Always Wear Your Seat Belt
    This one’s a no-brainer, but people tend to relax their driving habits during the summer and don’t always buckle up.
  5. Never Text or Use Your Cell Phone While Driving
    Taking your hands off the steering wheel and taking your eyes off the road to text is very dangerous. Talking on your cell phone while driving also is dangerous, even though many people have the misconception that a hands-free device is safe to use. It isn’t. While certainly better than holding your cell, having phone conversations while driving distracts you from concentrating on what’s ahead, behind, and to the sides of you.
  6. Maintain Safe Following Distances
    If possible, stay several car lengths behind the vehicle(s) in front of you. That way you’ll have a much better chance of seeing erratic driving and avoiding its consequences.
  7. Be Extra Careful When Approaching Intersections
    Impaired drivers are not known for obeying traffic signals and signs. Be particularly vigilant when coming to an intersection. Be aware of vehicles coming from cross streets or roads. Don’t assume they’re going to stop, even if they appear to be slowing down.
  8. Cooperate at Checkpoints
    Many states and municipalities set up police checkpoints on holidays. Don’t be irritated if you come to one. The officers are foregoing their own holiday to protect you. Be courteous to them and produce your driver’s license and insurance card when asked.
  9. Be the Designated Driver
    Volunteer to be the designated driver at parties or establishments where alcohol is being served. Then stick to it and don’t drink. Even a couple of beers can impair your driving ability. Besides, it’s hard to keep track once you’ve started.
  10. Don’t Drink and Drive
    You’ve heard it all your life, so listen. If you’ve had anything to drink and don’t have a designated driver to get you home, call a cab, Uber, or Lyft. It’s well worth the price.

By following these 10 tips, your safe arrival home will be the perfect ending to your perfect Fourth of July.

TIPS

5 tips for avoiding distracted driving

Distracted driving can pull your attention from the road and put others in danger. Knowing how to avoid distractions is vital for keeping employees safe on the road. Our tips can help.

1 Recognize the risks

Using an electronic device, drowsiness, eating and drinking, and focusing on other passengers in the vehicle are among the riskiest driving distractions.

2 Turn off the phone

Power off cell phones and other mobile electronic devices until you reach your destination or pull over in a safe and legal place if you cannot wait to talk or text. Cell phone blocking technology can help by preventing calling, texting, or using the Internet when driving.

3 Keep calm

Stay calm in stressful driving situations and don’t respond in kind to another driver’s erratic or aggressive driving. Keep your distance and let the driver go first if they are determined to do so.

4 Prepare for your trip

Preprogram music and navigation systems, and familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s safety features before setting out. Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary or loose objects.

5 Identify distracted drivers

Look out for motorists who are drifting from their lanes, driving at inconsistent speeds, or are preoccupied by other distracted behaviors. If you think the distracted driver is a danger to others, pull over in a safe place and call 3-1-1.

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