Safe Teen Driving Blog

Jeffrey Lee, 15, of Pleasant Grove, Alabama, died September 24 when he was pinned under a relative's car. Lee apparently put the car in gear, jumped out and was then run over.
Source: Al.com

Safe Driving Lesson Learned

Getting ready to drive is as much a part of motor vehicle safety as actually driving. From the time you enter your vehicle, you are dealing with a potentially deadly machine. Caution must be exercised around the vehicle at all times. Never exit the vehicle without putting it in the proper gear, turning off the ignition, and, if necessary, setting the parking brake.

Before you start your engine:

• Make sure all windows are clean. Remove anything that blocks your view of the road.
• Adjust the seat so you can reach all controls.
• Adjust the inside and outside rearview mirrors. You should not have to lean forward or backward to use them.
• Lock all car doors.
• Put on your safety belts. Ask all passengers to do the same.
• Make sure your car is in park or neutral gear before starting the engine.
  

Never move your car until you have looked in front, behind and to the side for pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Then, signal and pull into traffic when safe.

Good drivers develop habits that focus their full attention on driving. Some drivers can develop bad habits that can be very dangerous when driving. Some bad habits that distract your attention away from driving are:

• Driving when ill, upset or angry.
• Driving while eating and drinking.
• Driving while adjusting the radio or changing CDs/tapes.
• Driving while calling, answering or talking on a mobile phone.
• Reading while driving.
• Driving while drowsy or fatigued.
  

Good driving is based on practice and being alert at the wheel from the time you enter the vehicle until you exit.

This post is an excerpt from a recent edition of the Safe Driving Teen Monthly Bulletin. Each month the National Safety Commission publishes the bulletin for teens and parents designed to improve teen driver behavior, attitude, skills, and experience. Subscription Details