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This Non-Driver Took A Ford Safety Driving Seminar—Why?

This Non-Driver Took A Ford Safety Driving Seminar—Why?

Because the Ford Safety Driving Seminar doesn’t discriminate, obviously

 

 

I try my best not to be a hypocrite, so let’s get this out of the way: I’m not a driver. I have a license and I have no problem getting from point A to point B—if the roads are clear and I’m allowed to take my sweet time. But put me up against the infamous Manila traffic and notorious Filipino way of driving and I’m booking a Grab (or at least trying) to get to my destination. 

 

When it all boils down to it: we are—generally—not safe drivers and I do not have the skill set to keep myself out of harm’s way. 

 

So, why not a Ford Safety Driving Seminar? 

 

RELATED: Reality Check: How Much of Our Lives Do We Really Spend in Traffic?

 

First Things First

Before you hop in your car, do you check anything? Most of the drivers I see just do a once over of the car—tires pumped, windows intact, mirrors still working—get in and start the engine. If the engine catches, then you’re good to go, right? The answer is no; there are things that need to be checked.

 

Before you get inside, check if there are leaks and if there are loose objects coming out of your vehicle. And when you do get to sit down, make sure your driver’s seat and mirrors are all in the right positions. When you turn the key in the ignition, make sure to take a look at your fuel, water and oil indicators, as well as your lights. 

 

And, every month: review tire pressure and tread depth, as well as your battery for any corrosion.

 

Rainy Day Dos & Don’ts

This should go without saying, but watch out for water buildup. Move slowly and carefully through the roads and steer gently whenever you have to steer. And while you’re on it, put some mild pressure on your brakes so you don’t experience skidding. 

 

Here’s a rule of thumb, too: Never go into water that goes higher than the center of your tire. Unless, of course, it’s specially built to take on more.

 

When In Doubt: The 3-Second Rule

There’s a lot of debate about how much space you should leave between you and the car in front of you. Some say the length of your car, some say more and some definitely practice less. But for those in the know, there’s a new standard to follow and it works like this: Pick a point on the road to act as your starting point and start counting from the moment the car in front of you passes it; you should pass it at least three seconds after him.

 

Of course, this count should increase if you’re going quickly, if it’s raining and if you’re driving at night. 

 

RELATED: On Car Shopping: Brand New Or Secondhand? 6 Guys Weigh In

 

 

We may never have the wide highways of the United States or the cobbled streets of Italy, but at least we can drive without fear of our lives, right? 

 

 

Art Alexandra Lara

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