01 Jul 10 Everyday driving mistakes

Everyday drivers make little mistakes both in the way they drive and how they use their cars.

1. Distance in Traffic

   When stopping behind another car:
   Always make sure you can see their bumper – If someone goes into the back of you, you will not get launched into the person in front
   Leave enough room to manoeuvre around them just in case they break down

2. Stand on your brakes

   Don’t be afraid to stand on your brakes if you have to:
   Remember to brake early
   They will not lock up

3. Use button shortcuts

   Make full use of steering wheel mounted controls:
   They help your keep our eyes on the road and result in less accidents

4. Check your tyres

   Tyres condition is paramount :
   Maintain correct tyre pressure
   Check them once a month
   1.6mm of tread

5. Turn radio down

   Even though a singalong is great:
   Inhibits your ability to judge speed
   It affects your reaction time
   It Masks engine noise

6. Blind spots

   Awareness of other drivers’ blind spots:
   Reduces accidents
   Reduces road-rage
   Causes issues when emergency vehicles are trying to pass you

7. Sitting correctly

   Just because its comfortable doesn’t mean its right
   Left leg should not be fully extended when your foot is on the clutch
   Your arms should not be fully extended when your hands are in the 10 to 2 position
   Headrest should be inline with head
   You should have an unobstructed view of your instruments

8. Air recirculating

   Rules for the most economical use:
   Use it summer to lower the ambient temperature of your car before you set off
   Don’t use it in winter

9. Poor signalling

   At roundabouts:
   Signal to turn off just as you pass penultimate exit
   If your exit is more than 180 degrees from your entry point indicate right

10. Hydration

    Keep your fluids topped up:
    Hydration equals concentration