The three second following rule
Pick a fixed object ahead. When the vehicle in front passes it, count. If you reach it before three seconds, you are too close. Add more time at night, in rain, or behind large vehicles.
Intersection safety
Even with a green light, pause a moment and look before you go. Red light runners are a common intersection hazard.
- Cover the brake when approaching a stale green light.
- Keep wheels straight while waiting to turn left.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, marked or not.
Blind spot awareness
Adjust side mirrors so the side of your own car is barely visible, then confirm every lane change with a quick shoulder check. Remember that if you cannot see a truck driver's mirrors, they cannot see you.
Want short reminders like these by text?
Choose SMS topics