Driving Safety Tips for Your Teen Driver

Getting a license and finally being able to drive is a very exciting time for teenagers. While teens may be ready to jump behind the wheel and hit the road, parents should discuss safe driving techniques with their children to ensure they keep themselves and others safe on the roadways. Unfortunately, teens' inexperience makes them the highest group for auto accidents. However, practicing safe driving techniques can reduce that risk.

To promote safe driving for teens, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sponsors Teen Driver Safety Week annually in October. This year, the event falls October 16 to 22.  In honor of the upcoming Teen Driver Safety Week, here are some ways you can ensure the safety of your teen driver.

Buy a Safe Car

Most teens drive used cars in New Jersey. When buying used, always be sure to get the vehicle history report. Whether you're buying new or used, pick a safe car equipped with the latest safety features, including anti-lock brakes, airbags, traction control, and electronic stability control, as well as an outstanding crash safety rating. While you want a car that provides protection in the event of a crash, it's best to avoid large, bulky cars like trucks that aren't the easiest for new drivers to operate.  

For a safe car for your teen, visit our Autoland Dealership on Route 22 in Springfield. We carry a variety of new and used cars in New Jersey and will be happy to assist you with your search.

Always Wear a Seat Belt

A seat belt provides protection in the event of a crash. Not wearing a sea tbelt significantly increases the risk of injury or even death. Make sure your child knows to always wear a seat belt and to check that their passenger is buckled up before hitting the road. Newer cars have a seat belt warning that beeps until everyone is wearing a seat belt.

Always Obey the Speed Limit

Speed limits are set for a reason; the speed limit is based on the road condition and surrounding area. Speeding significantly raises the risk of an accident, as it impedes your ability to stop or react quickly. Aside from accidents, speeding can also result in a traffic ticket, resulting in fines, points, and a higher auto insurance premium. Encourage your teen to maintain a safe speed and safe distance with the car in front of them. Also tell them not to feel pressured to speed to keep up with traffic.

Enforce a "No Cell Phone" Rule

Cell phone use while driving is among the leading causes of auto accidents. Today's teens are more tech savvy than ever, and it's important your child understands the extreme danger of texting and using a phone behind the wheel. Research shows texting takes your focus off the road for about 5 seconds, which is the equivalent of driving the length of a full football field while blindfolded.

Encourage your child to leave their phone in their bag or safely stowed in the glove compartment or center console when behind the wheel. Drivers should also turn off their phone or put it silent to avoid the urge to answer. Even texting while sitting at a stop light should not be done. Drivers still need to pay attention while stopped in case something occurs.  

Minimize Distractions 

In addition to cell phones, there are other distractions that should be avoided while driving. A distraction is anything that takes a driver's mind off of driving, hands of the wheel, or eyes off the road. Talking to passengers, adjusting the temperature controls, changing the radio station, and eating and drinking are all distractions while driving. While these are distractions for anyone, they are even more so for inexperienced drivers; distractions can prevent a teen driver from noticing an impeding danger until it's too late.

To avoid distractions, prohibit your teen driver from having more than one passenger in the car, as passengers increase the risk of an accident. Also encourage your teen not to eat or drink while driving, as well as to keep other distractions to a minimum.

Enroll in a Safe Driving Program

To equip your teen with more experience and give yourself piece of mind, enroll them in a safe driving program. Safe driving courses can be taken in-person or online and typically last between six and 12 hours. Your insurance company may offer a driving safety program, or check with the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles for a list of approved courses. Not only will the program increase your teen's knowledge and skills, but also it could result in a discount on their auto insurance.

Set a Good Example

If you don't practice what you preach, it can be difficult for your teen to follow your advice. Make sure you are obeying the same safe driving practices that you are teaching your child. Make sure you are always wearing a seat belt, avoiding distractions, maintaining a safe speed, and so on.

Baby On Board: Safe Driving Tips for Baby Safety Month

A baby is one of life's most precious gifts, and as a parent your child's safety is your top priority. In honor of Baby Safety Month, our Springfield Toyota dealership and service center is sharing important tips for keeping your baby safe and comfortable in the car.

Leave Your Phone in Your Bag 

Using a cell phone while driving is very unsafe and even illegal in most states. The National Safety Council estimates cell phone use while driving causes 1.6 million accidents a year. Texting and driving is the cause of 1 in 4 car crashes. To avoid the temptation to use your cell phone while driving, always leave it in your bag or safely stowed out of reach. If you must use your phone, pull over at the next parking area or gas station. The "No Cell Phones While Driving" rule should be practiced whenever you're behind the wheel, even if your baby's not on board. 

Use the Right Car Seat 

There are many different car seats to choose from, and you need to select the one that properly fits your car, has a good safety rating, and is right for your child's age and size. Children must be restrained in a rear-facing car seat until age two or until they exceed the height and weight limit, which should be displayed on the car seat. Remember, car seats should always be placed in the back seat. Never leave the baby on your lap or in the front seat while driving. To ensure your car seat fits your vehicle and is installed properly, contact your local public safety department for a free car seat check. For more advice on choosing the correct car seat, visit SafeKids.org. 

Register Your Car Seat 

Once you've founded the right car seat for your baby, you need to register it with the manufacturer. Registering your car seat will ensure you are immediately notified if a defect has been identified and whether repairs or replacement are needed. 

Attach Toys to the Car Seat 

Providing your baby with toys during the ride is key to keeping him occupied and entertained. But, toys won't do any good if they're on the floor and out of your baby's reach. Not to mention, loose items can be a distraction for the driver and potentially cause harm to you or the baby in the event of an accident. Be sure to only provide safe, soft toys and tether them— along with your baby's pacifier— to the car seat to keep them within his reach. 

Install a Backseat Mirror 

A rear-facing car seat in the backseat is the safest place for your baby in the car. But, a rear-facing seat can make it difficult to keep tabs on your baby while driving. A backseat mirror gives you peace of mind by allowing you to safely glance at your baby to ensure he's comfortable and safe. 

Pull Over for Feeding Time 

Do not nurse or feed your baby in a moving car; always pull over at the nearest rest area, gas station, or parking lot. Feeding while driving impedes the safety of you and your baby, as well as others on the road. Fumbling for a dropped bottle poses a distraction for the driver, and if you baby chokes you will not be able to react quickly or safely.  Always pull over to allow your baby to eat and drink safely and comfortably.

For new parents, driving with your baby can be a little overwhelming. Keep these tips in mind to keep your baby safe when you're behind the wheel.

6 Bad Driving Habits to Avoid

We all make mistakes from time to time, but when it comes to driving a motor vehicle, a mistake can endanger yourself and others on the road. Operator error and inattention are top factors in auto accidents. Many auto accidents could have been avoided if drivers avoided these bad but common driving habits.  

Speeding 

Think about all the accidents that could have been prevented if the driver wasn’t speeding. While everyone is familiar with the dangers of speeding, some drivers tend to speed when they're running late, or just because they think it is fun. There is never an excused for speeding. Speed limits are set for a reason and are determined based on the road condition and surrounding area. Speeding can make it harder for motorists to react fast enough to avoid an accident, as well as increase the intensity of a crash. For the safety of yourself and others, always adhere to the speed limit. In inclement weather, drive slower and more cautiously. 

Distracted Driving 

Distracted driving is another leading cause of accidents. While distracted driving is commonly associated with texting and driving, it comes in many forms. Distracted driving also includes eating, applying makeup, adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, and reaching for an object while driving. Any behavior that involves taking your eyes or off the road, hands off the steering wheel, or mind off of driving is considered a distraction. 

It's important to stay alert and attentive while driving. Minimize distractions by turning off your phone or putting it on silent before you get on the road. Avoid eating, applying makeup, and other distracting tasks while driving. Also limit the number of passengers in your car to avoid distractions. 

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol isn't just bad— it's illegal. Drugs and alcohol impair your ability to drive and to react quickly. If you're going to be drinking, leave your car keys at home; ALWAYS call a cab or have a designated driver. Also avoid driving under the influence of prescription medications that may cause drowsiness or impair driving abilities. While medical and recreational use of marijuana is now legal in some states, it is illegal and unsafe to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of the drug.

Driving Tired 

Getting behind the wheel when you're tired is very dangerous.  When you are tired, you are less focused and attentive and have a slower reaction time. Even worse, you could fall asleep at the wheel. Whether you’re taking a road trip or heading home from the office late at night, never drive when you're tired. If you feel tired, have someone else drive if possible, or pull off the road and get some sleep in a safe place, such as a hotel, before getting back on the road. 

Not Wearing a Seat Belt

Wearing a seat belt is the best way to avoid injuries and save lives in the event of an auto accident. Statistics show seat belts have saved almost 300,000 lives in the United States since 1975. Nowadays, most cars have a seat belt warning, with some disabling the radio unless your seat belt is on. If your car does not have a seat belt warning feature, then post a note on your steering wheel reminding you to buckle up. Also make sure everyone in the car has a seat belt on before leaving the driveway. 

Driving on Empty 

Do you wait until your gas tank is on "E" before you think about filling up? This is not a good habit for a number of reasons. First, driving on a low gas tank can cause your fuel pump to wear out prematurely. The gas acts like a coolant for the vehicle's fuel pump motor. When the gas is low, the pump can suck in air, which brings in heat and wears it down. Second, dirt and sediment in the fuel tank can potentially block the fuel filter, also resulting in a costly repair. Additionally, you risk your car running out of gas, leaving you stranded on a highway or in an unfamiliar area. To stay clear of these issues, don’t rely on your car for how many miles you have left. Always keep your tank at least one-fourth of the way full. 

Are you guilty of any of these bad driving habits? Our Auto Mall in NJ recommends kicking these habits to remain attentive and safe on the roads. 

5 Tips for a Successful Road Trip

With the lowest summer gas prices in 12 years, many American families are planning to hit the road this summer. Fifty-five percent of Americans are planning to take a road trip this year due to cheaper gas prices, according to a AAA study. At 69 percent, the road trip is the most popular vacation for families planning to travel in the next year, followed by national parks (49 percent) and theme parks (42 percent).

Road trips are popular because they promote family bonding and allow travelers to see sites they probably would not have otherwise seen.  If you're planning a road trip this year, follow these tips from Autoland in Springfield, NJ. 

Have a Plan

When it comes to road trips, you can't just get in the car and head towards your destination. Road trips require careful planning and preparation to ensure you don't miss out on must-see sites or exceed your budget. For a successful trip, you should plan your route ahead of time. Your plan should include when and where you'll stop for food, gas, attractions, and lodging. Also be aware that your trip may not go as planned. Unexpected delays, like road work or bad weather, might set you off schedule and require you to adjust your route. Expect a few minor bumps in the road when budgeting and timing your trip. 

Make Frequent Stops 

Driving for several hours on end can make you feel groggy and less alert. Even if you don’t feel tired, pull over and take a break every few hours. Stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and grab a bite to eat. If you need to, switch drivers or take a nap before hitting the road again. Also, while it may be tempting to drive through the night, it's best to get a good night's sleep to ensure you are awake and alert for the long drive ahead.

Keep Your Gas Tank Half Full 

Don't wait until your gas gauge is on empty before you refuel. Letting your gas tank sit on empty is never good for your car, but it's an especially bad choice for long-distance travel. When you're on the open road, the next gas station may not be for another 100 miles, so you should fill up when you can. Always keep your gas tank at least half full to be safe. 

Avoid Breakdowns 

Before you hit the road, ensure your car is in the best possible condition. Make sure the tires are properly inflated, all fluids, including power-steering, windshield wiper, and engine oil, are at the right levels, and the headlights, taillights and signals are working properly. Also have your vehicle professionally inspected to be sure everything is in tip-top shape. Let your mechanic know you are going on a road trip, so he/she can do a thorough inspection of your tires, brakes, battery, and so on. Many New Jersey new and used car dealers offer vehicle service and repairs. At Autoland Springfield, we have highly-trained service staff and technicians, so stop by our dealership on Route 22 to have your vehicle inspected.  

Consider Entertainment 

After spending several hours in the car around the same scenery, your family could start to get bored. Especially if you have children, come prepared with entertainment. Think of fun road trip games, such as road trip bingo and the license plate game, to keep everyone excited and entertained. Also download games, music, and movies on your smartphone or tablet ahead of time, and bring your children's favorite handheld games and toys.  

With these tips, you and your family can have a successful road trip that will be remembered and cherished forever. Happy travels!

Winter Driving Tips for Preventing Accidents & Breakdowns

Though this winter has been mild thus far, this weekend New Jersey and the rest of the northeast are expected to experience some major snowfall. At the onset of this potential storm, we wanted to provide you with some advice for staying safe on the roads. Winter conditions, including snow, ice, sleet, hail and high winds, make driving more dangerous and require extra precautions to be taken.

Pavement friction and vehicle maneuverability are reduced in snowy, icy and slushy conditions, which can increase the risk of a crash. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 24% of all weather-related vehicle accidents happen on snowy, icy, or slushy pavement, resulting in more than 1,300 deaths and 116,800 injuries annually. Similarly, 15% of accidents occur during snowfall or sleet, leading to nearly 900 deaths and 76,000 injuries each year. Along with accidents, winter conditions can also lead to other issues, including flat tires and breakdowns.

To help you prevent accidents and breakdowns this winter, follow these safe driving tips from 1800 Auto Land, the dealership of choice for New Jersey auto sales.

Winterize Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is winterized. In addition to the tips found here, there are other ways you can avoid issues on the roads:

• Ensure your gas tank remains at least half full in below freezing temperatures.
• Keep your antifreeze and windshield washer reservoirs filled to the proper level.
• Monitor your tire pressure to ensure it remains at the appropriate level, which can be found in the owner's manual.
• Make sure your windshield wipers are efficiently removing snow and slush from the windshield. If there are any streaks, it's time to replace them.
• Clear your vehicle of snow and ice before hitting the road. This means clearing the windshield, side mirrors, rear windows, headlights, and even the roof of your car.
• Have your vehicle professionally inspected and serviced to ensure everything's in tip top shape.

Check Your Route

If you'll be driving farther than the corner convenient store, check your route. While main roads and interstates are likely to be plowed following a storm, backroads may contain potential hazards, such as ice, sleet or fallen branches. Check the road conditions and weather forecast of where you'll be traveling to ensure the roads are safe for driving. If the road conditions look bad or there's a storm looming, it's best to stay home.

Drive with Caution

In winter conditions, you need to drive more cautiously. This means driving at a slower speed and avoiding sudden movements so that you can maintain complete control of your car. On snowy and icy roads, you'll need to give yourself more time to turn, brake, change lanes or accelerate. Also remain alert in case you need to stop or slow down. 

Prepare an Emergency Preparedness Kit

In the event of an emergency, stay stocked on emergency supplies. Prepare an emergency preparedness kit that includes water, non-perishable food, an extra set of clothes, a blanket, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, a first aid kit, and anything else you may need if you get stranded. If you use any of the supplies, be sure to restock.

By following these winter driving tips, you can reduce your risk of accidents and breakdowns and stay safe on the roads.