Defensive Driving – Vehicle Maintenance
This week for #traffictiptuesday, let’s get back to basics. While safe, defensive driving SHOULD be a commonsense practice, there are other aspects of driving that folks sometimes ignore. Probably the most important of these is vehicle maintenance. It is hard to be a safe driver if your car won’t start. Regular oil changes should be done so your vehicle can stay in tip-top shape. You should check your other fluids regularly. You will also want to inspect and rotate your tires based on your manufacturer’s recommendation. You should also periodically check your lights and turn signals so you don’t get a repair order. As the old saying goes, you can choose to make time for it now, or you will have to make time for it later.
Another basic act we can all do a little better is vehicle security. You should never leave your unoccupied vehicle running, even if you are only away from it for a moment. It does not take a car thief long to get into your cherry red hot rod and tear down the street while you are not looking. You also never want to leave sunroofs open, or doors unlocked. Not that many of us are cruising with the top down in February, but you never know when a criminal will shimmy through the roof of your vehicle so they could unlock your doors and steal all your spare change!
As we slowly wind our way through 2023, let’s all try to remember the little things that can keep us and our vehicles safe.
As always, if you have a question or concern, please leave it in the comments below. Also, if you have a specific concern with unsafe driving in your area, such as speeding, drag racing, etc., give us a call, send an email, or reach out on social media. Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org
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