How to Adjust Your Mirrors Properly to Have Clear Visibility

There is a reason driver’s education teachers hound you about checking your mirrors. Your side and rear-view mirrors are among the most important safety features on your vehicle. Without them, you would only be able to view a fraction of the roadway at a time and your odds of a collision would skyrocket. While glancing from side to side and upwards every few seconds may be a bit awkward at first, developing the habit of correctly using your mirrors is a top priority.

Before you hit the road, you must adjust your side and rearview mirrors so that you have clear visibility in each of them. Here’s how:

How to Adjust Your Mirrors Properly

– Sit in the driver’s seat. Position the seat and steering wheel so that you are comfortable and have access to the gear shifter, brake pedal, and accelerator.

-Gently maneuver the rear view mirror so that you can see directly out of the middle of your back windshield without moving your head. The goal is to be able to quickly glance from the road in front of you to the road behind you without having to move or turn your body.

-Locate the levers or buttons that adjust the side mirrors. Many newer models have a small lever or joy-stick on the driver’s side door that electronically adjusts the side mirrors. Older models often require you to manually adjust them using a lever or by pressing on the mirror itself.

-Adjust the driver’s side mirror first. Make adjustments then sit back in the driver’s seat to ensure that you can see the road behind you and a small sliver of the side of your car.

-Next, adjust the passenger side mirror. If you have to adjust it manually, you may need to move between the passenger’s and driver’s seats until it is properly adjusted.

-After all mirrors have been adjusted, sit in the driver’s seat and look in each, starting with the driver’s side mirror. You should view everything behind you in segments as you glance along.

 

 

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5 Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain

Rain may not seem all that dangerous to drive in, but in fact rain causes a large number of car accidents due to limited visibility, reduced roadway friction, and standing water. Follow these five tips for driving in heavy rain to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible.

1. Slow Down

The most important thing you can do to stay safe in inclement weather is to slow down. Rainy conditions create slick roads, increasing the amount of time it takes your car to come to a complete stop. Give yourself more following distance than you usually would, and adjust your speed so that you’ll have plenty of time to stop at traffic lights. Remember that the posted speed limit is for ideal driving conditions and isn’t always the right speed in the rain. If other cars are driving faster than you’re comfortable with, drive in the right lane so they can pass you safely.

2. Turn Your Lights On

It’s best practice to turn on your headlights any time you need to use your windshield wipers. In fact, it’s the law in some states! Rain makes it harder for other drivers to see your vehicle, especially if your car is a neutral color like silver or white. Turn on your headlights so that other drivers can see you and avoid a collision.

3. Avoid Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is most common during the first few minutes of rainfall as the roads develop a slick layer of water and oil. If you wait a while before heading out, the rain will wash away the oil and other substances that got stirred up and the roads will become safer to drive on. However, you can still hydroplane if you’re driving too fast or you hit standing water. If you start hydroplaning, let off the gas and gently steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid jerking the steering wheel or hitting the brakes as these can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

4. Don’t Drive Through Standing Water

It only takes a couple of inches of standing water to make your car lose control. Driving through standing water can not only cause you to hydroplane, but it can also cause damage to the engine and electrical components if water gets pushed up into your engine. Since it’s difficult to tell how deep standing water on the road is, and it only takes about a foot of water to sweep a car away, it’s recommended to never drive through water if you can’t see the painted markings on the road.

5. When in Doubt, Stay Off the Roads

If it’s raining so heavily that you can’t see clearly or you can’t safely handle your vehicle, pull over to a safe spot and wait for the worst of the storm to pass. If there is a risk of flash flooding, move to higher ground, leave your car, and find a safe place indoors. Never drive through flood waters, and never drive in conditions you don’t feel safe in.

Many drivers underestimate the dangers of driving in rain, leading to thousands of accidents every year. Remember these tips for driving in the rain and you’ll never be caught unprepared.

7 Warning Signs You May Need a New Car Battery

Everything electronic in your vehicle relies on a properly functioning charging system. The fluctuating weather temperatures take a toll on your car’s battery. Hot summer heats can put a strain on your battery causing failure and the cold temperatures in the winter can cause a weak battery to fail faster than normal. The last thing you want to happen when hopping into your car, trying to turn on your vehicle, and not have it start due to a dead car battery. If your battery is getting older, here are 7 warning signs that your car battery may need to be replaced.

7 Warning Signs You May Need a New Car Battery

  1. When starting your vehicle, you notice the engine cranking slower than normal.
  2. Constant need to jump startyour vehicle.
  3. Extended use of interior lights along with the radio while the engine is not running, can cause the battery to drain.
  4. Rotten egg or sulfur smell can indicate a leaking or overheated battery.
  5. White/silvery powder like material around the battery post could indicate a problem and the battery should be checked.
  6. If the battery OR check engine light comes on, it’s time to have the battery and electrical system tested.
  7. Low battery fluid levels.

Be Proactive with your New Car Battery

When you have yournew car battery installed, be sure to:

  • Keep track of the batteries age. The average life of a car battery is 3-6 years.
  • Test your car battery periodically. As part of our complimentary Visual Vehicle Check, your car battery will be checked when you have your vehicle serviced at Sullivan Tire and Auto Service.

7 Common Car Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Your car is one of the most–if not the most–expensive possession that you have. As such, it is important to take proper care of it, in order to help it to have the longest life possible. Car maintenance can often sound confusing to those who do not know a lot about cars, and it can be a real pain to pay out all of the money that many things cost. However, neglecting proper maintenance, or carrying out the wrong kind of maintenance can actually end up costing you far more in the long run, and even shorten the life of your vehicle. Here are some of the most common, and most costly, car maintenance mistakes to avoid.

1. NOT CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE

Tire pressure is not just about avoiding flat tires–although that should be reason enough to check regularly–it is also about fuel economy. If your tires are under-inflated, it could be causing your car to eat far more gas than it should. Check every few months with a fuel gauge, and make sure that your tires are what they should be according to your owner’s manual. Another common problem is neglecting other tire maintenance, such as regular tire rotation–something that will make them last longer.

2. NEGLECTING OIL CHANGES

It is true that with newer cars there is less of a need for oil changes. But while they may not require an oil change every 3,000 miles, they do still need regular oil changes. If you have a newer car, and do not have an oil light, don’t leave it longer than every 8,000-10,000 miles before you have an oil change. Bad oil will damage your engine.

3. FAILING TO INSPECT/CHANGE BRAKES

Getting your brake pads changed can be expensive, but if you leave it too long, your brakes can wear down completely, and start to work away at the rotators, which will cost you much more money. When you first start to hear that tell-tale squeaking noise, make sure that you get your brakes checked out–often mechanics will check for free.

4. NOT KNOWING THE BASICS

A knowledge of basic car maintenance can really help you out of a tight spot. Many unnecessary problems are borne out of simple things such as not knowing how to correctly jumpstart a car or change a flat tire. To save yourself a little money and a lot of hassle, study up on the basics of car maintenance.

5. OLD WIPERS

Windshield wipers are an incredibly cheap and easy thing to replace, and yet plenty of people are still driving in adverse weather conditions, unable to see properly as a result of having old ones. Look for streaks on the windshield and cracks in the blades, and if in doubt, change them every six months or so. It is also worth splashing out on the better quality wiper blades.

6. OLD AIR FILTERS

Air and fuel filters are also inexpensive to replace, but failing to do so can cause you big problems. It is something that you can do yourself, but often mechanics will throw it in with another repair at no extra cost.

7. IGNORING FLUID CHECKS

Just as you need to change your oil regularly, other fluids are equally important in making sure that your engine runs smoothly. Coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and more are all essential, and costly if you ignore them.

(defensivedriving.com)

10 Ways To Keep Your Parked Car Cool When It’s Hot

The heat of summer can make this otherwise beautiful season downright unpleasant. For drivers who don’t enjoy intense heat, getting into a car that has been parked in hot weather can feel like being roasted alive. Stay cool and get more out of your summer by using these tips to keep your car cooler when parked.

1. Use a sunshade or window visor. This tried-and-true method of keeping your car cool should be your go-to option to counteract hot interior temps throughout the summer. Put up a sunshade or window visor every time you exit your car for more than a few minutes. Keep it even cooler for long periods by putting a sunshade in your rear window as well.

2. Use a dash cover. A fabric or upholstered dash cover can go a long way towards making your car’s interior more comfortable. You won’t feel as overwhelmed by the heat if you don’t have to touch hot vinyl surfaces. Dash covers also protect sensitive vinyl from sun damage that can cause cracking and fading.

3. Cover your steering wheel with a hand towel. Even if you use a sunshade, it’s a good idea to cover your steering wheel with a small towel. This will help to keep the contact temperature of your steering wheel down.

4. Park in a shady area. Whenever possible, park in a shady area. If you’re going to be somewhere for an extended period of time, it’s worth it to walk a bit farther in order to park in the shade. You’ll be happy to enter a not-so-hot car when you return from your day out.

5. Keep your precious possessions out of the sun. Any tapes, CDs or delicate items that you keep in your car should be stored out of the path of direct sunlight. Try storing your tape and CD cases underneath the seat. You can also throw a blanket over your precious possessions. If you can’t find a place in your car that will conceal heat-sensitive goods, consider placing them in the trunk.

6. Park in a garage when possible. Whenever possible, park in a garage. Your car will be out of direct sunlight and will have the benefit of near-constant shade. Even a warm garage beats being parked in the sun all day.

7. Keep windows slightly cracked. While it’s not a good idea to leave your windows all the way open, it is a good idea to leave them slightly cracked. Check to be sure that you can’t fit your arm through the crack in your window. Even a small crack will promote ventilation and help to keep your car cool.

8. Purchase a solar-powered fan. Paired with cracked windows, a solar-powered fan can make your car feel downright pleasant during even the hottest summer days. These simple fans work  to expel hot air from your car. By creating constant air circulation, they lower your car’s overall temperature.

9. Throw blankets over your seats. If your car features vinyl or leather seats, you know just how hot these materials can become when exposed to sunlight and high temperatures. To keep car seats cool, throw blankets over them. When you return to the car, you can place the blankets on the floorboards or toss them in the trunk. Keeping your seats cool will make your car more pleasant on hot summer days.

10. Leave your doors open before getting in. Before jumping into your hot car, leave the doors open for a few minutes. This will help the hot air exit and the cool air enter.

(cbsnews.com)

Five Tips for Keeping Your Memorial Day Travel Fun and Safe

For anyone who will be traveling this busy holiday weekend, safety should be the number one priority. From driving safely to choosing the most effective and safest routes, drivers should plan ahead. Here are a few tips to keep your holiday weekend safe and fun.

Be Prepared for a Safe Drive

Prevent a breakdown by making sure your car is in top working order. Check your tire pressure and fill your tank before you head out on the highway.

Watch Out for the Other Driver

Defensive driving is all about situational awareness. Pay attention to everything on the road. If you see another driver make a mistake, be ready to get out of the way and prevent an accident.

Choose a Safer Road

Toll Roads are among the safest roads in America. Toll authorities know their customers expect a higher maintenance standard and tolls give them the funds to deliver on that promise. Toll Roads have safety cameras and teams that constantly monitor the roadway to respond quickly to an accident.

Choose the More Direct, Less Congested Route

Today’s electronic toll collection systems allow you to pay for your ride without slowing down or waiting in line. With All Electronic Toll collection (AET), stopping at a toll booth is a thing of the past – it’s now go, go, go.

Know the Upcoming Weather Forecast

With so much severe weather developing across the country, know the expected weather in the locations you are traveling this holiday weekend so you can be better prepared for the best and safest routes.

How to Check Tire Pressure With a Tire Pressure Gauge

Maintaining proper tire inflation is relatively simple and essential to the overall tire performance of your vehicle. A properly inflated tire will provide longer life, quicker steering response, better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride than an improperly inflated tire. Both underinflation and overinflation can cause headaches like premature treadwear and possible tire failure. The best way to ensure you’re getting the most out of your tires is to check your tire pressure on a monthly basis.

Knowing how to use a tire pressure gauge is very simple. Here’s how to check tire pressure and refill your tires.

Items You Need When Checking Tire Pressure

Tire pressure gauge

Air compressor

Pen and paper

Your tire pressure gauge can be digital or standard. Auto parts stores typically carry both. Many auto parts stores sell portable air compressors that run from your car battery or 12v power port. Alternatively, you can use the air compressor found at most gas stations. They usually cost $0.50 or $1.00 to use.

HOW TO CHECK TIRE PRESURE

1. START WITH COLD TIRES IF POSSIBLE

Vehicle manufacturers specify PSI – literally “pounds per square inch” of pressure – assuming tires are cold. Tires are considered cold when the vehicle has been parked for three hours or more, or if the vehicle has been driven less than a mile (1.6 km) at moderate speed. PSI is the unit your pressure gauge uses to provide readings.

2. CHECK THE MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED PSI

Look on the driver’s side door jamb or your owner’s manual to find the recommended cold tire PSI for your front and rear tires.  If you cannot find it, you should consult your vehicle dealer, manufacturer, or a qualified tire professional.

3. WRITE DOWN THE PSI FOR EACH TIRE

If your front and rear tires require different pressure levels, write down the correct PSI for each to avoid getting confused as you move around your vehicle checking tire pressure.

4. CHECK TIRE PRESSURE WITH YOUR GAUGE

Remove the valve cap from one of your tires. Then place the pressure gauge on the valve stem and press down hard enough so the hiss sound disappears and your gauge provides a reading. With a standard gauge, the air pressure will push a small bar out from the bottom of the gauge. Measurement units are etched into the bar. A digital gauge will show you the reading on a screen.

Write down the reading and repeat this process for all four tires.

5. FILL TO THE RECOMMENDED PSI

Use an air compressor to refill any tires with low pressure. Many air compressors are different, so read directions carefully to be sure you’re using it correctly.

If you’re using the air compressor at a gas station, be sure to park so that the hose will reach all four tires. Insert change into the machine until you hear the motor running. Fill each tire by placing the end of the hose over the valve stem and pressing on the lever.

Using a gas station air compressor means your tires might be “hot.”  If it is necessary to adjust inflation pressure when tires are “hot”, set their pressure to 4 psi (14 kPa) above the recommended cold inflation pressure. Recheck the inflation pressure when the tires are cold.

After filling your tires, use the gauge to check pressure again. At this point, it’s ok if you overfilled the tires because you can always let some air back out. Never drive on overinflated tires. Overinflation can result in decreased traction, premature wear, and decreased impact absorption.

6. REPEAT: CHECK TIRE PRESSURE MONTHLY

Make the above procedure a monthly ritual. Regularly checking your tire pressure is the best way to ensure your tires never dip far below the optimal PSI.

 

4 Facts you might not know about Bumper & Accent Colors

What if we told you that your bumper color is different from the body color? Or your trim pieces are different from the body color? You might think that sounds absurd, right? How is it possible for the bumper and trim to be a different color from the body color? Well we at Central Texas Collision Services are here to clarify this for you. See our 4 Facts you might not know about Bumper & Accent Colors listed below.

 

  1. Colors vary based on the substrate on which it is painted. For example, the bumper and trim can be plastic, but the body can be metal. Having these 2 different substrates, but using the same color paint can cause a slight variation due to the evaporation rate for the paint. A longer evaporation rate gives a spec pigment additional time to “float” and can darken the color. This can happen with both older and new cars.
  2. Depending on the angle and lighting available on the curved and flat surfaces, you may notice a slight color change.
  3. During the mixing process, adjustments made can create a lighter or darker color, or causing the metallic or mica elements to lay down differently.
  4. Another scenario can be that the body was painted at one factory, while other parts, such as the bumper and trim, were painted at another factory using a different paint method.

 

(bodyshopsaustintx)

How to Clean Your Car’s Air Filter

Keeping your car clean on the outside protects the paintwork; keeping it clean on the inside makes it a nicer place to be. Keeping it clean under the bonnet can help maintain its performance and save you money.

If you’re looking to take the next step in car cleanliness, have a think about cleaning your air filter. Filters prevent dust, dirt and debris from being drawn into the engine through the air intake pipe, and they need to be cleaned fairly regularly to maintain the performance and efficiency of the engine.

Here, we show you how to clean a car air filter so you can save money and do it yourself. We’ve also covered the essentials of air filter maintenance, so you know when and how to approach the job.

How to Clean a Car Air Filter

Cleaning the air filter is easy if you have a good idea of where everything is positioned under the bonnet of your car. You can use a couple of different methods to get the job done, and we show you how in our step-by-step guides below.

Before getting started, you should ensure you have a few materials to hand. These include:

  • Screwdrivers
  • A vacuum with hose attachments/handheld vacuum
  • A torch (or natural light will work, too)
  • A bucket
  • Water
  • Laundry detergent
  • A clean towel

Locating the Air Filter:

You’ll find your car’s air filter on top of the engine where it’s easy to reach. If you can’t find it, take a look at your car’s manual, which should label all the different engine components.

Don’t have the manual? Head online, as there’s likely to be a digital version or a YouTube video showing you where it is. Failing that, you should ask a mechanic to point it out next time your car is in for a service.

Removing the Air Filter:

Air filters are normally found in a plastic or metal housing, which you’ll need to open up before you can remove the filter. In newer cars, they’re normally just clipped down, making them easy to remove, but you might need to unscrew or unbolt a section of the housing if your car is older.

When you’ve opened the air filter housing, it should just be a case of pulling the air filter out.

Cleaning the Air Filter with a Vacuum Cleaner:

The easiest way to clean a car air filter is with a vacuum cleaner. Connect the hose attachment to your standard household vacuum, and you’ve got the perfect tool for getting into the ridges of the filter itself.

Vacuum both sides of the filter for about two minutes, making sure you’ve got all the visible dirt and debris. When you’re done, hold the filter up to a bright light, as this will show any bits you might have missed. Go over the filter once more, then you’re ready to replace it.

Cleaning the Air Filter with Water:

If your car’s air filter is very dirty and you have a bit more time on your hands, you can clean it with water. Cleaning an air filter with water takes a lot longer, especially when you factor in the drying time, but it will get you great results.

Start by filling a clean bucket with water and a small amount of laundry detergent. Submerge the filter in the water and swirl it around, using your hands to aggravate dirt and dust out of the filter material. Then, remove it from the water and shake off any excess, before rinsing it under running water.

When it’s clean, place the filter on a clean towel and leave it to dry. Depending on where you dry it, the filter could take up to 24 hours to dry completely, so make sure you give it enough time before you plan to use your car again.

Remember – the filter must be totally dry before you replace it. If it’s even slightly damp, it could cause serious engine problems because dust and particles will cling to it and block the airflow. Make sure it’s bone-dry before replacing it.

What Does a Car Air Filter Do?

A properly functioning car air filter helps prevent contaminants from getting into the engine. It’ll block things like insects, dust particles, and other debris that could hinder the combustion process or damage moving parts.

When your car’s air filter is clean and fully functioning, it can help extend the life of your engine, enhance vehicle performance, and improve fuel efficiency. If it’s clogged, you’re likely to experience reduced performance and efficiency, and in the worst cases, even stalling and reduced power output.

How Often Should You Clean a Car Air Filter?

Aim to clean your car’s air filter every 15,000 miles or so. Your car’s manual will recommend a service schedule for the air filter, so you should stick to it. You may need to clean the air filter more often if you live in a rural area, where there’s usually more dirt and dust on the road.

The air filter can also become clogged quickly during the summer months for the same reasons. If you tend to spend lots of time behind the wheel at this time of the year, then you might want to consider cleaning or even replacing the filter before the warm season hits.

If you don’t drive much, we’d still recommend cleaning the air filter at least once a year as part of a regular service, as this will guarantee the performance and efficiency of the engine. You should also replace the air filter every three years, as they can become brittle and won’t work as well over time.

Cleaning your own car air filter regularly is a great option that can help you save money while also doing your bit to lower emissions.

What Are the Commons Signs of a Dirty Car Air Filter?

Air filters are often overlooked as part of regular maintenance, but it’s important they’re kept clean in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you drive with a dirty air filter, you might notice the following:

  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Unusual engine sounds
  • Reduced power
  • Check Engine Light on
  • Black smoke from the exhaust
  • Misfiring engine
  • Strong smell of petrol or diesel when starting the car

If you experience any of the above and can’t figure out what’s wrong, don’t forget to check the air filter. A thorough clean may instantly solve the problem, or you might need to replace it. Remember, if it’s very dirty, cleaning the filter with water does give better results than simply vacuuming it – just make sure you leave it to dry thoroughly before replacing it.

HOW TO CHECK BLIND SPOTS WHEN DRIVING

A blind spot is anywhere around your car where your mirror cannot pick up. Most of the time, students think that if they’re checking the mirror, there is no need for them to check the blind spot, and that’s where they go wrong. So, when you’re enrolled in a driving school some instructors will teach you how to check blind spots when driving so you to be safe when on the road.

The blind spot is very critical when you’re driving and when you’re taking your road test.

How to Check Blind Spots

Checking your blind spots involves looking in the mirror and then over your shoulder. It’s that easy. Also, check the view out the window, and ensure there are no obstructions on the road.

Do not turn all round while checking the blind spot. This is because you want your entire focus to be on the direction where your car is headed to.

It won’t be long until it becomes completely natural to include it in your everyday observation practice.

Moving Off

You should look in every direction before stepping off the road. You will learn how to do this maneuver in a clockwise direction as part of your driver’s education. However, you need to check out:

  • Over the left shoulder
  • Look in the left-wing mirror
  • The rearview mirror
  • Your right-wing mirror
  • Over the right shoulder

After an Emergency Halt

Before making a sudden stop, you won’t always have the opportunity to double-check your rearview mirror.

As a result, before you start driving again, you must ensure that your blind spots and mirrors are checked thoroughly.

Getting Back On the Road After Being Stuck In Traffic

Before going forward in traffic, you must double-check all three mirrors. In this situation, you don’t need to peek over your shoulder into your blind areas.

However, you should be aware of bicyclists or motorcyclists who could have come up beside you while you were stopped and pay attention to their presence.

At Junctions

When approaching intersections, the pillars on each side of your windscreen will obscure your view.

Therefore, you’ll need to:

  • Reduce your speed as you approach to do the necessary observational checks on time.
  • Tilt your head ever-so-slightly forward and look further ahead to see over your A-pillars and into the blind zones.
  • Make sure to look left and right at least twice since this will give any approaching cars enough time to enter your field of sight.

When in Motion

When you’re behind the wheel, it’s best to keep your head facing in front. If you turn your head too frequently, it might throw off your lane alignment.

Because of this, there are mirrors so you can maintain a general watch on what’s happening behind you with a fast glance.

However, a simple glance in the mirror isn’t always sufficient. When switching lanes or another vehicle is merging in your lane, you should check your blind spot by looking in your mirrors and over your shoulder in the direction that is relevant to the situation.

Note that:

  • Before you do anything else, look in your rearview mirror
  • Examine the mirror located on the relevant wing
  • Look over your shoulder

That should take up the whole region behind you, allowing you to switch lanes without preventing anyone from securely.

What are the Blind Spots While Driving?

Some areas your mirrors don’t quite reach, though they display most of what’s happening behind you.

Additionally, your vehicle can also obscure some portions of the road from view. These sections are the ones we call blind spots.

Every automobile has two primary blind spots, even though their dimensions change based on the automobile’s make, model, and size.

  • Diagonally behind you. You can see vehicles much further back in your rear or side mirrors, but if traffic moves up in a lane beside you, they are obscured from view.
  • Diagonally at the front. Your line of sight is obscured by your vehicle’s bodywork, namely the A-pillars on each side of your windshield.

When Is the Best Time to Check Blind Spots?

When you’re behind the wheel, you should constantly be aware of what’s happening around you. In most cases, you should be able to accomplish this by focusing on the roadway in front of you and often checking your mirrors.

Nevertheless, there are certain circumstances in which it is essential to swivel your head and check if there is anything in the areas you can’t see. These include:

  • Before moving. You must confirm that you will not be going off directly into another person’s path.
  • Before making a lane change. Motorists or cyclists may have drawn up beside you when you’re trying to pass another vehicle or get into the correct lane at an intersection.

It is not enough to stare in your mirrors and hope for the best while driving on multi-lane roads such as highways since other drivers may be changing lanes behind you.

  • When other cars are entering your lane from an adjacent one. Drivers who wish to pull out from slip roads or merge into your lane in any other way require a clear distance in which to do so.

You have to make sure that you are not preventing anyone from entering the lane that you are in. If that’s the case, you need to adjust your speed or switch lanes to account for the situation.

  • Making a turn into a secondary road. Before turning off a road, you should examine your blind spot, especially if you have just passed a bike. If you do not do this, and the cyclist is following you closely, you risk colliding with them as they continue in the same direction
  • At crossroads. Your A-pillars may be hiding traffic approaching from the left or right. Before turning, you must ensure that you have performed the necessary observational checks.

 

 

(https://pierrepauldriving.com/)