Know and obey the law:

• Be aware of and obey posted speed limits.
• Observe warning signs.
• Adapt your driving habits to changing weather and road conditions.
• Keep cell phone use to a minimum and avoid other distractions while driving.
• Wear seat belts. Insist that others in your vehicle wear belts, too.
• Be sure all children in the vehicle are properly restrained.
• Always use turn signals.
• Don’t tailgate.
• At accident or construction sites, obey directions from uniformed law enforcement officers.
• Speeding in construction zones now carries double the penalty of normal speeding violations.
• Don’t drink and drive. Don’t drive under the influence of drugs.
• Ask your pharmacist or doctor about side effects from any new drug, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
• Be aware that combinations of drugs and alcohol can compound the effects of each other.
• Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Use common sense:

• Always lock your doors.
• Tell friends or family the route you are traveling and your expected arrival time. Call them if your route or arrival time changes.
• Don’t drive in unfamiliar areas after dark.
• Park in well-lit areas, preferably with attendants on duty.
• Have your keys in your hands as you approach your vehicle.
• Check the interior of your car before entering, even if your doors are locked.
• If you see a stranger near your car, get help or wait until the stranger leaves. Preventive maintenance is the best way to avoid problems.
• Check all fluids regularly, with particular attention to battery and radiator fluids in extreme hot and cold weather.
• Check for leaks. Clear water usually is condensation, but any leak with a petroleum look or smell, or water with a green or pink color, is a sign that trouble is on the way.
• Check tires (including the spare), windshield wipers and belts for abnormal wear. Check tire air pressure.
• Keep the fuel tank at least half full.
• Have your vehicle checked periodically by a professional mechanic.

If you have a breakdown:

• Move your car as far off the roadway as possible.
• Turn on emergency flashers.
• Get out of your car away from traffic.
• Raise your hood. Tie a light-colored cloth to the antenna or door handle.
• If possible, wait for a uniformed law enforcement officer.
• If someone other than a uniformed officer offers help, keep your doors locked and ask them to call police for help.