by Johnny Robertson

While we are used to teenagers beginning to drive at 16 in most states of the United States, the minimum age for obtaining a driver's license in most other countries is 18. The measure of waiting an additional two years was taken by these countries in order to avoid many of the fatalities connected to young inexperienced drivers. Many teens enjoy driving at a very high rate of speed. Care should be taken and advice given to teens to avoid such behavior, but they often have the immortal complex and do not take well to such verbal warnings. In such cases, driving articles that have been written by NASCAR drivers, may offer another solution. Since such drivers are often teen heroes, things can be said in the driving articles in such a way as to meet teens where they are. If such safety precautions are not followed, the death rate of teens involved in accidents will increase.

The first rule of safety is to always use a seat belt. If children are taught to use seat belts from an early age, it is only natural that they continue to use seat belts when they begin to drive. Many vehicles are equipped with lights and buzzers that help to enforce this rule.

Always take time to adjust all mirrors before leaving your driveway. This precaution allows you to see traffic on all sides of your vehicle. Mirrors are not meant just for an occasional check to see what is happening, but should be used at all times so that you are aware of what is happening all around you.

Use of headlights, both at night and in the day is also a very cautious move in making yourself more visible to the oncoming traffic. This will help in avoiding accidents as well. You will be visible and you will be safer. If you think that there is some problem with the headlights then you should go to a garage first to have them replaced.

Maintain a steady and consistent speed. Keep a check for the speed limit and try to stay close to that limit. This is the best option you can try to avoid high speed crashes. Maintain a constant and safe speed.

Do not forget to use your turn signals. Use them every time you turn and every time you change lanes. Proper turn signal use warns other drivers that you are about to make changes. Other drivers should not have to be a mind reader to drive safely when you are on the road.

Do not forget about your horn. It should be a warning device to let other drivers know of a danger. Make sure that your horn use is friendly and not just a way to express your road rage. In case of vehicle breakdown, do not forget to use the emergency flashers. They can warn approaching traffic that you are stopped in the road way in order to avoid an accident.

Know and understand road and warning signs. This helps to keep you from having to make last minute changes that may endanger you or other vehicles. This knowledge is usually required in order to obtain your driver's license.

Watch traffic that is ahead of you. You should be able to anticipate at least 15 to 20 seconds in front of your vehicle. Advanced warning can often be the difference between a narrow escape and an accident with injury or fatality. Staying awake and alert will keep you safe.

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