nd your wheels lock up, let up on the brakes to unlock the wheels, and then brake gently.
- Listen to radio traffic reports and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
To Pass or Not to Pass
- When there is a solid yellow line on your side.
- When you’re uncertain there is enough time or space.
- When you can’t see around a curve or over a hill.
- When behind multiple cars and passing one car doesn't really make any difference.
- On two lane roads, don’t pass tractors or trucks or other vehicles you can’t see around.
- In hazardous weather conditions.
- When another car is coming toward you in the opposite lane.
- When a car is passing you.
- When there is construction or road work.
- When the car in front of you is going the maximum speed limit.
- When on narrow roads, on bridges, or in tunnels.
- When you are unfamiliar with the car you are driving and its capabilities.
- Don’t play leap frog by passing a friend that just passed you.
Passing with Caution
- Only pass if there’s a dotted line on your side.
- Check that the passing lane is clear.
- Make sure you have plenty of space to pass safely.
- Signal before you pass.
- Pass at least ten miles per hour faster than the car you’re passing while not exceeding the speed limit.
- Make sure you have cleared the passed car with enough space before pulling back into your lane.
Major Factors in Accidents
- Alcohol and drugs
- Ignoring right-of-way
- Improper passing and driving to the left of center
- Reckless driving
Danger Signs for Drowsy Driving
Drowsiness can sneak up on you when you’re driving. For teenagers, driving late at night, between 11pm and 2am is particularly dangerous for falling asleep at the wheel. Here are some signs to watch for – and do something about before you run into a tree or another car.
- Yawning a lot
- Having trouble keeping eyes open
- Not being able to concentrate
- Not remembering the last few minutes or seconds
- Jerking of your head or body from the brink of falling asleep
- Car wanders from the road or into another lane
What to do if you’re drowsy when driving:
- Slow Down
- Pull off the road into a safe parking space.
- Call home if you can.
- Talk to a passenger if you have one.
- Turn radio to a lively station – try singing.
- Roll down window and get some fresh air for a few minutes, or turn vent on full blast.
- Make a pit stop, use the bathroom and get a Coke or coffee to drink.
Buying an Used Car
- Some older used cars have airbags. Many Chrysler cars 1990 (also a few from 1989) and later have airbags. Other makes and models have airbags in 1993, 94, or 95 models.
- The Consumer Guide Used Car Rating Guide has listing with good and bad points of used cars.
- Check the horn, lights, heat, air-conditioning, brakes, seat belts, steering, and seats out before you buy. Also look for evidence that indicates the car was in a major accident.
- Check with the previous owner for the car’s accident and maintenance record. You may find the owner’s name written on the owner’s manual in glove compartment. Also for a fee, you may be able to get some information from your state department of motor vehicles if you have the car identification number which can tell you if the car has been in previous accidents.
- Have a mechanic you trust go over the car and alert you to any potential problems.
- Check the car for evidence of tampering like any marks on the odometer or numbers that don’t line up. Also see if the odometer miles are more than mileage entered on oil stickers, inspection stickers, or tire warranty cards.
- Look at the tires. If the odometer reads less than 25,000 miles, the car should have the original tires – and they should all be the same brand and probably radials.
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