Safe Driving: Walk Around Before You Roll Out
Safe Driving: Walk Around Before You Roll Out
A person can learn a lot about maneuvering a vehicle from video games, much as a pilot can train on a flight simulator. But one huge step is usually missing from driving games—the few moments that each driver should take outside of their vehicle, before they open the door, plop down into the driver’s seat, and grab the steering wheel.
Yes! Safe driving actually begins as you approach your vehicle. A quick walkaround can help you spot issues that might otherwise become much bigger problems once you start moving. Ask yourself, “Has anything important changed since I parked the car?”
Look around and down
As you walk toward your vehicle, pay attention to the area around it. Look for pedestrians, bicyclists, children, pets, shopping carts, or anything else that could create a hazard when you pull away. For example, did a child leave a bicycle lying in your driveway?
Also take a quick look at the ground beneath the vehicle. Did someone leave a glass bottle near your wheels? Is there broken glass? Is a dog hiding under the car? Is your vehicle leaking? A puddle of water from the air conditioner may be perfectly normal, but a puddle of oil, coolant, or another automotive fluid might require prompt maintenance.
Don’t just check on the driver’s side. You need to see the whole area. Small children, pets, bicycles, toys, low objects, and other hazards can be difficult or impossible to see once you are sitting in the driver's seat. Rearview cameras are extremely helpful, but they shouldn't replace checking the area before you get in.
A quick vehicle walk-around
You don't need to perform a professional vehicle inspection every time you drive, but developing the habit of checking your vehicle will help you to catch problems sooner.
- Tires: Do any look noticeably low or flat? Is there obvious damage?
- Windows and mirrors: Are they clear enough to provide good visibility?
- Lights: Do you notice a broken or damaged light?
- Vehicle damage: Is there new damage you weren't expecting? Hopefully nobody dinged your door with a shopping cart while you were away.
Look inside
Before opening the vehicle, take a quick look through the windows. Check the seats and floor for anything unusual, especially if the vehicle has been parked in a public area or left unattended for a while. Is there a person or an animal lurking in the back seat? If something doesn't look right, don't just open the door and get inside. Move to a safe location and get help if necessary.
How is your vehicle faring in the weather?
Snow, ice, frost, mud, fallen leaves, and even heavy dew can affect visibility. Before driving, clear your windshield, windows, mirrors, headlights, and other areas necessary for safe operation. Don't settle for scraping a tiny viewing hole through an icy windshield. You're driving a car, not looking through a submarine periscope.
If snow has accumulated on the vehicle, remove it from the roof, hood, trunk, lights, and windows so it doesn't slide across your windshield or blow onto other road users once you start moving.
Trunks, backseats, and cupholders
Before getting into the driver's seat, think about what you're putting in the vehicle. Groceries, backpacks, sports equipment, tools, and other loose objects should be placed where they won't interfere with the driver or roll underneath the pedals. Make sure that hanging clothes, such as dry-cleaned items, will not block your view when driving. Heavy items should be secured whenever possible. This may mean taking the time to put them in a trunk or cargo area instead of tossing them on a seat.
And if you're carrying a hot drink, make sure it has a secure place to sit. Don’t try to be a juggler while driving. A sip of coffee can be wonderful. Hot coffee on your lap is very un-fun.
Now you are ready to sit down, fasten your seat belt and perform some pre-start tasks. Remember these walkaround tips each time you walk towards your car. Safe driving before you ever open the driver's door.
At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers. Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!