DMV Offers Tips for a Safe and Fun Summer
Mon Jul 13, 2009
Source: DMV
On the Go?
Summer is here, which means it's time for some fun in the sun! Summer is the perfect time of the year to take a long trip, hop on your bike, or give teens a little extra freedom with the family car. However, summer doesn't mean a vacation from safe driving practices. The California Department of Motor Vehicles has developed the following tips to assist drivers in having a fun, yet safe summer.
Bike Riders and Pedestrians
With the weather warming up, more people will be lacing up their tennies and gearing up their bikes. As a driver, it's important for you to be cautious of bikers and pedestrians and to recognize their right to share the road with you.
Bicyclists
On public streets, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Drivers must allow bicyclists to merge first when making a right hand turn; you need to be extra-cautious when merging toward a curb, and you need to watch closely for bicyclists when opening a door next to traffic. Drivers must remember that bicyclists have rights too, so please be sure you share the road.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians have their own set of responsibilities to keep themselves safe, but drivers must take caution as well. Though pedestrians are required to yield the right-of-way to drivers at any intersection that does not have a clearly marked crosswalk, do not assume that they will. As a driver, you need to remember to drive cautiously when pedestrians are near because they may cross your path. For more information on bicycle and pedestrian safety, check out the California Driver Handbook online at www.DMV.ca.gov.
Teen Drivers
With school out for the summer, teen drivers will likely be racking up more miles and gaining more experience on the road. While it's great that driving the family wagon will help them become more skilled behind the wheel, it’s also very important for teens to remember essential safety tips, as well as the restrictions that apply specifically to them. One such restriction is that during the first 12 months of license issuance, teen drivers are not allowed to drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. without the accompaniment of an adult 25 years or older. For complete information about teen driving restrictions, visit www.dmv.ca.gov/teenweb .
Road Trips
Long distance drives can be strenuous on you and your car, so it's important that you are fully alert at all times, and that your car is in safe operating condition.
Pre-trip Check
Before you begin your adventure, check the running condition of your car by checking the car’s oil level, hoses, coolant level, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid level. Also be sure that your windows are clean on the inside and out.
Tailgating
On long trips, many people often get antsy and want to drive faster. It's important that you don't tailgate the person in front of you as tailgating is the leading cause of rear-end collisions. To avoid tailgating, use the “three-second rule” - always make sure that you pass a certain point at least three seconds after the car in front of you passes that same point.
Driving in the Dark
On road trips, people often drive through the night to get to their destinations sooner. When driving at night, make sure you drive slower because the darkness can make it harder for you to see what is in front of you, giving you less time to stop if there is a hazard ahead. Also, most highway construction takes place at night so be cautious of road workers and pay attention to any signs that may tell of what is ahead. Always remember to Slow for the Cone Zone.
Reporting a DUI
There are several holidays during the summer when people enjoy having, or going to parties and barbeques. Unfortunately, this can lead to people drinking more than the legal limit, but still deeming themselves fit to drive. If you suspect someone on the road is driving under the influence please call 911 and provide the law enforcement with the exact location, the vehicle make & model, and the license plate number. And always remember, don't drink and drive.
By following these few safety tips you will be on your way to a safe and enjoyable summer! For more information on how to be a safe driver, or other DMV related services, visit www.dmv.ca.gov. Save time. Go online!
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