Are you a Responsible Driver?
Most of us rely on our cars to get around and it's something that we tend to take for granted. However, there are a number of risks we face on the road each day and the last thing you want is to become involved in an accident. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure you're a safe and responsible driver.
Maintain your vehicle
Faulty equipment in your car, such as brakes that don't work as well as they should, can be a serious risk when it comes to having an accident in your vehicle. To avoid something going wrong while on the road, make sure your vehicle is good condition. Have your car serviced regularly and book in to see your mechanic if you notice any issues so you can be confident your car is roadworthy and safe.
Minimise distractions
It takes a lot of focus to drive safely but it's all too easy to find yourself distracted with text messages or fighting children. Make sure you minimise distractions while you're driving and pay attention to the road. This might mean putting your phone in your bag out of reach to stop temptation or pulling over if you're getting too distracted by what's happening in the backseat. Remember, taking your eyes off the road can have very serious consequences.
Keep to the speed limit
This might seem like an obvious one but it's very easy to find yourself creeping up several kilometres above the speed limit, especially when we're in a hurry or under pressure from other drivers. Speed is still one of the major causes of car accidents and the faster you go, the longer it's going to take you to stop if you need to brake suddenly. Remember that the speed limit there for a reason and it's better to be a few minutes late than put yourself or others at risk.
Have the right insurance
No matter how careful you are on the road, accidents happen and you need to make sure that you're protected financially by having the right insurance in place. Check what level of insurance cover you have in place and ensure that it's current. Also, be aware of any exclusions attached to your policy so you know exactly what to expect at claim time.
Keep an eye on your tyres
Your tyres are all that come between your vehicle and the road and to ensure the safety of you and other road users, it's essential that you maintain your tyres properly. To ensure optimal performance, get your wheels balanced and aligned at least annually, have your tyres rotated, check your tyre pressure every two to four weeks, and check your tyres regularly for signs of wear. If your tyres need replacing, don't put it off as this could impact on their performance and jeopardise your safety.
If you're in the market for new tyres, visit the Tyresales website at www.tyresales.com.au to browse their full range of genuine brands. You can also contact their customer service team on 1300 897 372.