The Smith System

 

5 Tips To Keep You Safe If Traveling This Thanksgiving

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1. Aim High In Steering – Don’t just look at what is going on right in front of you.  I’ve heard that when farmers used to cut hay, before GPS,  they would focus on something at the other end of the crop.  This helped them drive straight when cutting the hay.   If they tried to only look directly in front of the tractor, they would have some crooked lines.  The same is true when driving a car, by looking high, it’s easier to drive straight down the road.
2. Get The Big Picture –  Be observant of what is going on around you.  Is there a car parked on the side of the road?  Is the car entering the intersection going to wait for you or try to make it?  Is their a car behind you?  This reminds me of some of the cop movies.  You know, they know who all is around them, what they are wearing, and other small details most people would not even notice.  I know, some of those movies are far fetched, but be aware of your surroundings when driving.
3. Keep Eyes Moving – Look in front, to the sides, and all of your mirrors.  I’m sure we’ve  starred directly in front of the car and almost become hypnotized.  When driving like this, your eyes are not moving at all, and you don’t have a clue of what is going on around you.  So if you catch yourself doing this, snap out of it and become more aware of you surroundings.
4. Leave Yourself An Out – Create a cushion of space between yourself and other drivers. Give yourself time to pull over, stop if the need arises.  Try to eliminate driving  too close or next to other cars.  This will allow you an empty lane to get in if needed.
5. Make Sure They See You – Always use blinkers when turning or switching lanes.  Also be aware of other drivers blind spots.  Do not travel side by side in someones blind spot.  Slow down to get behind them or speed up to get in front of them.

 

Keep these 5 tips in mind if you are traveling for Thanksgiving.  

Be safe and have a great Thanksgiving.