Know and Obey the law

Be aware of and obey posted speed limits.

Observe warning signs.

Adapt your driving habits to changing weather and road conditions.

Keep cell phone use to a minimum and avoid other distractions while driving.

Wear seat belts. Insist that others in your vehicle wear belts, too.

Be sure all children in the vehicle are properly restrained.

Always use turn signals.

Don’t tailgate.

At accident or construction sites, obey directions from uniformed law enforcement officers.

Speeding in construction zones now carries double the penalty of normal speeding violations.

Don’t drink and drive. Don’t drive under the influence of drugs.

Ask your pharmacist or doctor about side effects from any new drug, whether prescription or over-the-counter.

Be aware that combinations of drugs and alcohol can compound the effects of each other.

Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Use common sense:

Always lock your doors.

Tell friends or family the route you are traveling and your expected arrival time. Call them if your route or arrival time changes.

Don’t drive in unfamiliar areas after dark.

Park in well-lit areas, preferably with attendants on duty.

Have your keys in your hands as you approach your vehicle.

Check the interior of your car before entering, even if your doors are locked.

If you see a stranger near your car, get help or wait until the stranger leaves.

Preventive maintenance is the best way to avoid problems:

Check all fluids regularly, with particular attention to battery and radiator fluids in extreme hot and cold weather.

Check for leaks. Clear water usually is condensation, but any leak with a petroleum look or smell, or water with a green or pink color, is a sign that trouble is on the way.

Check tires (including the spare), windshield wipers and belts for abnormal wear. Check tire air pressure.

Keep the fuel tank at least half full.

Have your vehicle checked periodically by a professional mechanic.

If you have a breakdown:

Move your car as far off the roadway as possible.

Turn on emergency flashers.

Get out of your car away from traffic

Raise your hood. Tie a light-colored cloth to the antenna or door handle.

If possible, wait for a uniformed law enforcement officer.

If someone other than a uniformed officer offers help, keep your doors locked and ask them to call police for help.