Safety on the road
- Fireside Gear
- Jan 17, 2022
- 4 min read
Hello again, and welcome back to another great read from FSG. Today I would like to talk about road safety. Now, most of this information directly relates to the United States but is still relatively useful for the rest of the world. According to data* collected over the recent years, there is an average of 69,000,000 breakdowns in the U.S alone each year. Yes, you read that correctly sixty-nine a million vehicles on average, that's approximately 1 in 3 people having a vehicle breakdown in some capacity at least once a year. Shown here are some interesting numbers breaking down the time and costs of these events....see what I did there lol.
The last picture shows some data on just how dangerous breakdowns on the road can be. So together we can try and make the drive a safer environment for everyone with some good tips, a little bit of education, and safety items.
Education:
1: Learn about your vehicle and its features and equipment, read the owner's manual!
2: learn about drivers safety( you are right now 😃)
3: learn about maintenance and towing programs local to your area.
4: learn how to do basic repairs and quick fixes to get you home or to the repair shop.
5:RULES! make sure you know road rules before driving or driving in a new area. Laws and regulations change with time and where you drive.
Preventive maintenance:
1: monthly checks, It's recommended to check over your vehicle at least once a month if not more. Check fluids(oil, wiper fluids, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) Break system, wheels, lights, and safety equipment.
2: be aware of items reaching the end of service such as breaks, oil, and filters. These items need to be replaced at set intervals and are critical to your vehicle running smoothly.
3: Prevent breakdowns with regular maintenance and care for your vehicle from your trusted mechanic.
4: learning how to do simple tasks such as oil changes and breaks can save you time, money, and stress.
5: If your vehicle alerts you of a malfunction or needed repair via dashboard lights or connected app, Don't ignore it! It could be a minor or major problem that could sideline you and put you in danger. Also. If your car is making noise you can't identify or is new, investigate it!
Awareness:
1: Be aware of the weather and other conditions between your
destinations. This can be as simple as looking at weather conditions between Point A and B.
2: Watch for road hazards such as debris, fallen wires, limbs, and items in the roadway.
3: Flashing lights! They flash for a reason!!! SLOW DOWN, MOVE OVER! Police, Fire, EMS, towing, and Construction vehicles are usually heavy, big, and not easy to drive. If the lights are on someone is working on the road. Slow down and drive carefully past the situation, eyes on the road. Don't rubberneck.
4: Backcountry roads can be dangerous especially for those not from the area. Local to me, one road has over 3 sharp S bend curves that are banked and change elevation all in under 2 miles, Not to mention it's in between 2 huge ponds. Roads like this can be deadly if you don't pay attention or drive recklessly. Same with valleys and mountains. Just pay attention and listen to any warnings local officials have.
5: urban areas tend to have traffic, lots of road work, many emergency vehicles, and lots of pedestrian traffic. Check traffic and road maps before leaving for your drive. Sitting in a car with low coolant in standstill traffic while it's hot will damage your vehicle.
Safety:
1: Be aware of your surroundings including weather, areas of travel, road conditions, and Traffic.
2: If you need to pull over and can continue driving try and find a well-lit parking lot, gas station, truck stop, or store. Pulling off on the side of the road can be dangerous, especially if it's on a highway or main road.
3: If you need to make an emergency stop put your hazards on and pull off right while slowing down in the breakdown lane. You should keep a safety vest and emergency flashlight in your driver's door. Check your mirrors for oncoming traffic and exit your vehicle. Once out you should immediately activate any emergency signaling devices such as red or amber LED flashing light pucks or sticks, flares if safe to use them, safety cones or triangles.
4: Beware of where and when you are stopping. High-crime areas are probably not the best place to get out and check that weird sound alone in the dark. 2 am in a blizzard on the side of the highway isn't time to check your low tire either.
5: If you need help call immediately. Notify your towing service, family member, or boss about your breakdown explaining also your direction of travel and location. Having someone besides the tow or repair company know where you are is always a good idea.
These items are some must-haves for emergencies and breakdowns.
Safety items to have:
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Data* and pictures sourced reliably From:
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Many thanks for joining FSG, See you again next time!
Patrick, O/O of Fireside Gear.
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