If you’re like us here at Zendrive, you can’t believe that 2017 is already over! Life moves pretty quickly, and sometimes it’s helpful to pause for a moment, hit the reset button and take stock on the previous 12 months to get a head start on the new year. That brings us to some of our favorite resolutions that all drivers should embrace now, and going forward.
6. Become ultra aware of the passing lane
Even though it’s the law in nearly every state, drivers often forget or forego passing lane rules and etiquette. Remember, on highways and interstates, move out of the left lane if you are not passing other cars, regardless of speed.
5. Focus on driving
Seems obvious, right? Concentration is the one thing that we lose throughout our day, and when that occurs behind the wheel, it becomes far more hazardous to us as well as those around us. In the event that one absolutely must use a mobile phone, it’s recommended that the following order of operations is observed: Find a safe and logical place to pull over away from busy road traffic; use the phone’s Bluetooth function rather than a headset or any engagement other than hands-free; and keep your hands on the wheel at all times. This will all help drivers (re)program their behavior to focus their hands on the car and their eyes on the road. Which brings us to…
4. Look at your windows and mirrors, not your screens
Becoming a mirror-checker is something that can always be reinforced. And no, not for purposes related to vanity (you can always check your hair before you leave for, or after you arrive at, your destination). Mirrors are essential assets that help acknowledge and navigate the flow of traffic. Scan ahead through the windshield, and scan your mirrors for other incidents that may impact your own driving. A good rule of thumb: Train yourself to check often, every 30 seconds or so. That may sound like a lot, but remember that it only takes five seconds to cover the length of a football field driving 55 miles per hour.
3. Stay in control
Aggressive driving happens on the roads, don’t be aggressive back; just keep driving the way you were. They will have to deal with their own consequences. Hand gestures and dirty looks don’t have to go both ways!
2. Don’t use the phone while driving—seriously
We say this a lot, but it bears repeating. There is no such thing as a “quick reply” when it comes to being behind the wheel of a car. Again: Five seconds. Fifty-five miles per hour. Football field.
1.Plan before you drive
One of the best ways to ensure you are not as distracted while driving is to plan your trip ahead of time. Program your map apps or your car’s navigation system with voice prompts prior to embarking on the road.
Happy New Year from the Zendrive team, and safe driving out there!
