Although you might already have many of the following habits of safe driving, perhaps there are a few that you can commit to this year.

• Never Drive impaired – If you’ve been drinking alcohol or you are tired, drowsy or ill, don’t get behind the wheel and put yourself and others on the road at risk.
• Take care of your vehicle - If your car is not in good condition, you can’t rely on it to perform as expected. Routine and regular maintenance such as regular tune-ups and tire checks will keep your car running well.
• Always buckle up - Such a small thing but potentially life-saving for you and your passengers. And, oh yeah, most states require it by law.
• Be a defensive driver – Pay attention to what other vehicles around you are doing at all times and act accordingly. Try to anticipate what the other drivers are going to do, but be ready to adjust if a car makes a sudden move.
• Do not allow distractions – Whether it’s talking to passengers, adjusting the radio or the GPS, or – most especially – using your cell phone. Studies have shown that, when distracted, you are as much at risk as a drunk driver.
• Take care of your passengers – See that they are always buckled up for the trip. Properly secure young children (under age 8) in the appropriate car seat for their size and age. Seat all children under age 12 in the back seat.
• Resist the urge to tailgate – a slow driver might be distracted and could make an unexpected move. Let your speed determine your following distance. The higher your speed, the more room you should leave between your car and the one just ahead.
• Don’t run the red light – Even if you are alone at the intersection, come to a complete stop and wait for the green light. How many times have you heard someone say, “I didn’t see them coming?”
• Use your blinker when turning – It’s there for your use as the only way to communicate with others sharing the road with you.
• Observe the speed limit – These limits are set based on what traffic will bear in a given area of the road – not to inconvenience you – and statistics show that about a third of fatal auto accidents show speeding as a cause.

Auto Insurance Tip

Will you be carpooling in the new year?  Whether you'll be driving the neighborhood kids to or from school, sharing the drive to work with coworkers or something else, your  auto liability insurance should reflect the increased risk of additional passengers in the automobile. And if you'll be compensated for your driving, there are extra coverage issued to sort out.  Check with your insurance agent to be sure your insurance coverage is adequate well in advance the need to file a claim. 

Feel free to contact any of our very capable and experienced agents at the William M. Sparks Insurance Agency here in Lutherville/Timonium, MD to discuss your insurance questions.  We can help you review your current insurance policy and explore your options to be sure you have the best coverage and protection according to your circumstances.