From the right tools, such as an electronic throttle controller, to the right driving attitude, there are many ways to enjoy a smooth driving experience. There are several factors that increase driving complexities. If you know what they are and how to react properly, you can turn complex into simple.
Understand That There Are Factors You Can’t Control
Despite your best efforts to prepare your car and yourself before hitting the road, the environment may not fully cooperate.
- Environmental and weather-related factors require that you drive defensively.
- Adjust your driving style according to the current situation. If visibility is low due to mist and fog, for example, reduce speed.
- Make sure to check the weather and road conditions before you head out. Knowing what’s ahead can help you avoid disasters.
Prepare Your Vehicle and Yourself
Pre-drive checks and maintenance are some of the factors you can control to guarantee a smooth ride.
- Always check the battery, lights, oil, water, brake, air, and gas before hitting the road.
- Make sure you have a well-stocked emergency toolkit and the car accessories you shouldn’t drive without.
- Prep your vehicle for your driving needs. If you’re using a family car, for example, the seat may have been adjusted to your parents’ or siblings’ height.
- Don’t forget to examine yourself. Avoid driving if you’re sleepy, drunk, or dizzy. Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re not in a good mood or under extreme emotional stress.
- Give yourself enough time to reach your destination without flooring your car. Proper time management will help you cruise with ease and maintain safe speeds.
Know the Rules of the Road
- Following the road rules for everyday driving keeps you and other motorists safe. They’re not invented for no reason but based on years of research on safe merging, changing lanes, and the like.
- Traffic rules ensure road safety and help drivers make safe decisions while on the road.
- They prevent anything that might cause an accident or injuries, from speeding to beating the red light.
- Promote responsible driving, where every motorist follows the rules and signs, and reduce traffic congestion at the same time.
Respect Other Motorists and Pedestrians
A smooth ride means no problem of any kind, which is easier to achieve if you drive with courtesy and consideration.
- Respect other road users, including cyclists, and yield where you should. Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, and don’t honk like crazy.
- Leave any type of distractions at home. You might hit someone while taking your eyes off the road to check your phone.
- Beware of what’s around you: potholes, other vehicles, blind spots, and the like.
- Make responsible decisions at all times. Put off driving if you’re tired or intoxicated, for example.
Driving smoothly not only means ensuring your car is equipped for smooth acceleration and braking. You should also know your limitations, check and care for your vehicle, follow the road rules, consider your physical, mental, and emotional condition, and drive with respect. Want to enhance your vehicle’s performance before your next road trip? Torqit carries tools and equipment to enhance your vehicle.
