Photo Credit: arinas74
I have friends and family members who would never entertain the idea of driving in Los Angeles, yet in one week, I may make the round trip journey between Orange County and Los Angeles at least once or twice. I grew up in the diverse metropolitan city and have braved many a freeway in my 30+ years living there. I actually quite enjoy driving, and while traffic in any city can be stressful, I try to make the most of that time by listening to soothing music or singing and playing “road trip” games with my kids.
As a mom, my primary concern when it comes to automobiles is safety. Even before my children were born, I researched the safest car seats, took a car seat safety class, and had our car seat checked for proper installation. Now that my children (particularly my son) are old enough to comprehend some basic safety information, I’ve been identifying teachable moments where we talk about safety in and around the car.
In order to be a good example to my children, I strive to follow a few simple safety tips to ensure that our time in the car is enjoyable and free from incidents.
1. I secure my mobile phone inside my purse. We know that distracted driving plays a part in as many as 25 percent of all motor vehicle accidents. Completely removing the distraction so that it’s out of reach helps me curb that urge to answer the phone while I’m driving.
2. I utilize a hands-free headset if a call is absolutely necessary. At present, California is one of 9 states that prohibit the use of a handheld cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. While I try not to make a habit of it, if I have to take a call, I do so without ever picking up the phone.
3. I plan my route. There is nothing more frustrating or stressful than getting lost. The innovation and functionality offered by a built-in navigation system is invaluable. Since the advent of the smart phone and all of it’s app-splendor, I’ve found a number of reliable, user-friendly navigation apps. My favorite is the simple MapQuest app which will give you free, voice-guided, turn-by-turn directions.
4. I fill up the tank. I still remember my father’s advice about checking the amount of gas I have before going anywhere. While I’ve never run out of gas, I’ve come way too close, simply because I didn’t know where I was going or thought I could drive further than my tank would get me. Looking for the lowest priced gas in your neighborhood? Download the GasBuddy app.
5. I check traffic and weather/road conditions. While we don’t have to worry so much about adverse weather affecting traffic conditions, it’s definitely worth taking a peek at Sigalert.com to determine your best route, particularly if you’re driving during rush hour. And yes, there’s an app for that.
6. I carry a small emergency kit in the trunk. Most of the time, I access it because of a simple band-aid request from my 4 year old with a boo boo. But should I ever be stranded or in need of a quick remedy it’s comforting to know that I could survive on my own for a time.
7. Together, my husband and I ensure our cars are serviced regularly. Oil changes, tire rotations, and engine inspections, prevent breakdowns and/or alert to impending problems.
8. I make sure I keep up to date with traffic laws. Like most things in life, the laws are always changing. It becomes critical to review the basics when I’m driving in an unfamiliar city.
Driving in Southern California can be a daunting task. Even the most experienced drivers may have to use their automobile insurance in the unlikely event of an incident. I have to admit that I heavily rely on my husband to make those decisions regarding insurance plans, but it shouldn’t have to be that way. Auto insurance provider Esurance understands how confusing the process might be and offers a vast amount of resources on both their website and blog. Here are my favorites from the site:
1. Since I often find myself sitting in traffic, I’m thinking I need to get my zen on with these yoga exercises…perfect for city dwellers like myself who sit for long periods of time pondering why there is so much traffic on the 405 at 1 am.
2. It doesn’t rain very often in Southern California, but when it does, half the city forgets what it’s like to drive in inclement weather. I’m thinking a review of these winter driving tips is in order. In fact, you can learn about driving in all types of weather conditions on their blog.
3. It’s no surprise that gas prices in Southern California are amongst the highest in the nation. You might want to read these tips on increasing fuel efficiency before you fill up at the pump.
Own a smartphone? Download the Esurance mobile app which includes a feature that lets you know the status of your repairs while your car is being serviced.
On Facebook? Visit the company’s page to get your questions answered in a timely fashion, obtain a quick car insurance quote, or learn from others in the community.
What are your best driving tips?
This is a a compensated post written while participating in the SocialMoms and Esurance blogging program. For more information on how you can participate, click here.
- Discover Luxury at Sonesta Irvine: Your Ideal Staycation - August 8, 2024
- CHOC Walk Returns to the Disneyland Resort – Special Events and Ways to Support - June 28, 2023
- Beastly Ball Returns to the Los Angeles Zoo - May 8, 2023
I lock my cell phone in the gun safe in my pickup when I travel, (makes it impossible to steal, too). Absolutely no way it can distract me.
People talking on cell phones while driving scare me to death at times…
Making sure the cell phone is safely stored during driving is crucial so safe driving. I completely agree Mike.
In LA, traffic jams can pop up anywhere, even at 1AM. Keep a safe distance from other cars and avoid potential accidents when the person in front of you slows down unexpectedly.
I know…1 am on the 405…crazy! Thanks for your tip.
Oh, the lure of the cell phone, even quick glimpses at stop lights are a temptation! Definitely, my number one safety idea.
Yes Megan I completely agree : )