“A car is just a big expensive coffin.” -Dad

My dad always informs my siblings and me of that whenever we get into our vehicles.

One day dad and I were headed to Auto Zone to get a part for my car and he was driving. By the way, he is a really good driver. Anyway, we got cut off by some ignorant teenager and that’s when he told me that “everyone is just in a hurry and it’s my job to look out for the people who can’t drive.” Which I totally agree with him. The only way that I will be totally safe is when I am driving by the law and looking out for all the crazy drivers. However, it isn’t fair. The pressure of once I get into my car I have to look out for myself until I arrive at my destination alive is massive. So, to all of the crazy drivers out there here are some points you should read to improve your driving.

1. Stop lights

Just because the stop light is red doesn’t mean that you should check your phone to see what Jim or Sarah snapchatted you. Stay off your phones! It is illegal anyway.

2. Brakes

Every car has this feature and this is what drives me insane. City drivers make sure you are reading this point very closely. If you see a red light or brake lights that means that you need to get your foot off the gas pedal and start applying pressure to the brake. DO NOT slam on the brake once you are two car lengths away. One reason is that it isn’t safe and throws your passengers around. Two, you are wearing out your brake pads quicker! It’s not that hard, I promise.

3. Green lights

Once a red light turns green, that doesn’t mean that you are transported into being a NASCAR driver and have to go 0 to 60 in seconds. Ease on your gas because, in the long run, your gas tank will thank you.

4. Speed limit signs

Speed limit signs aren’t there just to make the Earth look pretty. The signs are there because that is the speed that can ensure safety around a corner or down a hill. So, if I am going 40 MPH when it is a 40 MPH zone please back up and stop following my car so close. I promise I won’t go faster and the odds are I will go slower.

5. The right lane is the slow lane

If I am driving in the right lane then that means that I am doing the speed limit or even under. I do not like it when I am driving and some car comes rearing up on my butt and then passes me but glares at me the whole time they are passing me. Like oh, I’m sorry you obviously forgot which lane is the fast lane and which one is the slow lane.

6. Parking

If you don’t know how to park then you shouldn’t be driving period. Nobody should have to squeeze into their car because you parked so close that they can't open their door at least halfway open. There are lines for a reason.

7. Blinker

If you want to turn left, use your blinker. If you want to turn right, use your blinker. If you want to switch lanes, use your blinker. If you know the laws then you should use your blinker. It is not that hard.

So stay smart, drive safe and touch up on driving laws and everyone will be safer.

-xx M