Seasoned drivers understand the significant role of safety on the highways and roads. They maintain appropriate distances between vehicles, check their surroundings before making turns, and adhere to speed limits. However, did you know that ensuring safety starts even before you get into the driver's seat? Conducting a thorough pre-driving check is crucial for both your vehicle and personal preparedness. Here’s what you need to examine before hitting the road:

Assessing Your Personal Condition

Self-Check, Alertness, Pre-Driving

Initiate your pre-driving routine by evaluating your own condition. Consider the following questions:

• "Did I get enough sleep?"
• "Have I taken any medication that could impair my driving?"
• "Am I feeling emotionally stable and focused?"

Don’t forget your vision aids if you use prescription glasses or contact lenses.

Your mental, emotional, and physical state can greatly influence your driving capabilities. For example, driving while emotionally distressed increases your risk of an accident by tenfold. Ensuring you are in a good state of mind before driving is not just a precaution—it's a necessity.

Vehicle Exterior Inspection

Before you even start the engine, check the external condition of your car.

Firstly, assess the weather conditions. Adverse weather like rain, snow, or heavy winds can impact driving safety.

Next, inspect the area around your vehicle for any obstructions such as animals, toys, or even children that might be hidden from view when reversing.

Check the cleanliness and functionality of your windows, windshield, headlights, taillights, and brake lights to ensure they are free of dirt, which can impair visibility.

Examine the tires for proper inflation and any visible signs of wear or damage. Regularly checking tire pressure is advised, and always have a spare tire and the tools needed for a change.

Lastly, inspect underneath the car for any signs of fluid leaks.

Inside Your Vehicle

After ensuring the exterior of your vehicle is safe, move to the interior checks.

Adjust your seat to ensure easy access to controls and pedals—refer to your vehicle’s manual if you are unsure of how to adjust your seat settings. Maintain a safe distance from the steering wheel to prevent injuries in case the airbag deploys; a minimum of 10 inches is recommended.

Adjust all mirrors to achieve a full panoramic view of your surroundings and ensure your position in traffic is visible.

Safety Protocol and Departure Preparation

Safety First, Seatbelt Usage, Defensive Driving Readiness

Secure your seatbelt—it's a simple action that remarkably increases your survival chances in accidents. Adjust the seatbelt to sit comfortably across your chest and lap, ensuring it's flat and not twisted.

With your seatbelt securely fastened and all preliminary checks complete, you're ready to start the engine. Check for any warning lights on the dashboard to ensure all systems are go.

By following these steps, outlined in our texas state approved defensive driving course online, you're ensuring a safer driving experience even before you leave your driveway. Ready, set, drive safely!