Driving Tips

I have been driving for almost 15 years now. I'm proud to share that within those years I have never encountered a situation or anything that might have hurt me, my passengers and the car itself. And not a record that I got caught for not following traffic rules.

Driving is a skill, basing it on my experience. It's easy to learn how to drive. But the principles behind the wheel and the techniques to become a good driver are sometimes hard to understand for some. It took me 2 years of practice driving around our village before my Dad permitted me to get a License and drive in the open. Within those 2 years of practice, I was also taught on how to handle certain situations. The right attitude once you get on the road and the safety measures to take. From the right way of seating down the driver's seat, the proper footwear to be used, the do's and don'ts while in traffic, road signs, road rules and how to beat tardiness. If you think it will take you a little longer to learn all these principles, I suggest you still go for it just be patient. The road is like a game board. You'll never know what will happen next, it is very unpredictable. You don't just go out and drive your favorite car "your way". Most of all, lives are at stake. Once you lack knowledge on at least one of the basic rules, you lose.

Why am I making this blog? Our new place is not accessible to public transport. I have been driving by myself all the time or with my little boy since we moved. Running errands, bringing my son to and from school. Nothing really against it. As long as you have a car of your own, it's a-okay. But I saw the risks of driving alone. Thank God, for all the days and nights I come home safely.

Here are some of my personal ways on how to drive safely as possible.

Safety--- includes prevention from getting robbed, car-napped or hold-upped.

• I make sure that the night before, I'm able to sleep well and my things are all fixed for the following day. That includes Emergency Nos. City Map, Driver's License and Car Registration.
• Once inside the car, make sure all systems are working. Tires, clutch, breaks, accelerator, car horn, headlights, wiper and be aware of unusual sounds.
• Wear your seat belt and make sure you're comfortable with the shoes you're wearing and how you're seated.
• Don't text or use your cellphone while driving. Pull over to a safe place if it is really important.
• I leave for my appointment 1hour and 30 mins before the given time. Prevents you from rushing.
  
• I leave 30 minutes earlier if my destination is just near.
• Being ahead of time gives you a relaxing drive
• When you're relaxed, coolness sets in, you give way for other vehicles
  
• When you give others a chance you set their mood in that same manner. So it is going to be like a chain reaction. Hopefully.
  
• If a vehicle or a driver speeds it's way pass you or cutting you from a very dangerous point, take time, breath, and think that the driver is just in a hurry because he needs to use the toilet :D
• Change your route every 2 days or everyday if possible. Bad elements may study your everyday activities. Maybe subject for robbery and car-napping.
• Look at your side mirrors and rear view mirror
  
• Listen to a soothing music
• Never place your bag or any valuable in front or any place where people can view it from the outside
• Never open your door or window for anybody. Even if they say your car is busted, you have a flat tire. That's why you double check before leaving.
• When caught in a risky situation, stay alert, honk the horn and go to the nearest Police Station or to the nearest place full of people

photo source

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The Land Transportation Office of the Philippines have more tips to share:

Defensive driving is often defined as preventing crashes before they occur, it is the demonstration of an attitude, awareness and driving skills such as:

· Stay alert and keep eyes moving so that you can keep track of what is happening at all times;

· Look for trouble spots developing around you;

· Have a plan of action if the other driver does the wrong thing; and

· Know that the law requires drivers to protect each other from their own mistakes.

A Defensive Driver must:

· Be able to keep a safe driving record.

· Have a positive attitude on road safety.

· Be physically and mentally fit to drive.

· Have received proper training before driving.

Factors that affect Driving:

*Attitude *Behavior *Right Mental Attitude

More Tips Here