Not only are they easier (and more relaxing) to drive than a manual, in some cases they can be better on fuel and can cost less to maintain. If you haven’t driven an automatic car before, however, it can be all too easy to get behind the wheel and be totally perplexed by the lack of a clutch pedal and the array of options provided by the shifter.
- Park should only be used when you’re stopped and getting out of the car. This ‘locks’ the transmission, preventing it from rolling away (but you still need to apply the handbrake when parked as well).
- Reverse does as it says – acts the same as a reverse gear in a manual, and should be selected when you want to drive backwards.
- Neutral is the same as knocking a manual gearbox out of gear. It shouldn’t be selected when moving – this is known as coasting – but can be used (along with the handbrake) if you’re stopped for a short period of time.
- Drive will select gears automatically and allow the car to move forwards.
- Drive in the prescribed speed limits on the various roads. Always remember that “Speed thrills but kills”.
- Always put on helmets, seat belts and other safety equipments before driving a bicycle/ motor cycle/vehicle. Always remember that “Safety saves”.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Never use mobile phones or ear phones while driving. Always remember “A mobile call on the road may be the last call of your life”.
- Know the traffic signs, signals, lights and traffic safety rules before you hit the road. Always remember that “Road safety rules are best tools to avoid accidents”.
- Do not drive for long hours in a stretch. Have a proper beaks after every 2 hours of continuous driving. Always remember that “Man is a man and not a machine”.
Kids in school buses, children on foot and bikes, harried parents in cars: Back-to-school days bring congestion—and an increase in potential hazards.
“This can be a dangerous time because children—as well as drivers—are adjusting to back-to-school routines,” says Alex Epstein, director of Transportation Safety for the National Safety Council (NSC). Fortunately, a few key tips can help improve safety for everyone. Here’s what Epstein recommends that drivers be aware of, as well as some reminders for parents to share with their kids.
- Slow down and drive extra cautiously. Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school. Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles.
- When flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection. Be prepared for kids to appear in unexpected places, like from between parked cars; if they’re on bikes, prepare for them to turn in front of you without looking or signaling.
- If you need to use your phone, be sure you’re pulled over safely.
