Wearing a seatbelt is a fundamental aspect of vehicle safety, mandated in numerous regions for both drivers and passengers. However, ensuring safety within a vehicle encompasses more than just buckling up. Important practices, such as adopting the correct driving position, utilizing headlights appropriately, and being aware of surroundings when entering or exiting a vehicle, can greatly enhance safety.
Automotive specialist Shubham Parashar offers valuable tips on car safety that all drivers and passengers should consider.
The way one positions themselves behind the steering wheel plays a crucial role in vehicular control and safety, especially during an accident. Parashar suggests a technique involving the wrists to determine the optimal distance from the steering wheel.
“Avoid sitting too close or too far from the steering wheel. Rest your wrists on the wheel; your elbows should have a slight bend. This posture helps ensure proper driving alignment,” he advises.
Using high beams can impair visibility for other motorists, particularly those driving towards you. Parashar cautions against this, stating, “Always utilize low beams in traffic. High beams can hinder the vision of oncoming drivers, raising the chances of a collision.”
Although it may seem comfortable to place your feet on the dashboard during lengthy drives, this practice can be hazardous if airbags deploy. Parashar warns, “Do not rest your feet on the dashboard. If the airbag activates, it could lead to serious injuries to your legs and back.”
It is also critical not to carry children on an adult’s lap while driving. Children are particularly at risk in the event of a crash if they are not properly secured. “Never allow children to sit on your lap. They can be dangerously positioned too close to the dashboard or front seats when seated in the back without proper seat belts,” he advises.
Parashar further highlights the risks posed by airbags to children seated too near them. “In an accident, they face a higher risk of severe injury. If the airbags inflate, it could result in burns or suffocation due to their proximity.” He strongly recommends using appropriate child safety seats. “Child seats are essential, as they are designed to keep young passengers secure.”
Headrests serve a critical function beyond comfort; they provide necessary support for the head and neck during a crash. “Never remove the headrest from your car seats. It helps prevent whiplash injuries in the event of a collision. Without headrests, passengers could suffer serious neck injuries,” Parashar explains.
Though some suggest using headrest rods to break a window in emergencies, Parashar believes they may not be effective due to inadequate grip. “It’s wise to keep a hammer or tire wrench in your vehicle,” he recommends.
Another often-overlooked safety concern involves hair accessories. “Women should avoid using plastic or metal clips when driving. They can cause injury during sudden movements associated with whiplash in a collision,” he notes.
Parashar also emphasizes the importance of being vigilant before entering your vehicle, especially if it has been parked for a while. “One useful tip is to inspect the rear wheels of your car as you approach. If the suspension appears lowered, it may indicate someone has entered your vehicle, potentially posing a threat when you get behind the wheel,” he cautions.
If anything seems off about your vehicle, it is advisable to assess the situation from a safe distance before entering. A vehicle tracking system can enhance security, particularly if family members or trusted individuals also use the car. “Install a tracker and set up a geofence. Share access with someone you trust, so they are alerted if your car takes an unexpected route,” Parashar suggests.
He also recommends periodically inspecting less visible areas of the vehicle for unfamiliar devices. “Check the undercarriage, trunk, door pockets, glove compartment, and armrest storage for any hidden trackers or bugs,” he advises.
If you discover an unfamiliar device, it is best to avoid confronting anyone who may have placed it there and to seek assistance from authorities or a trusted individual instead.
An unusual noise coming from your vehicle can be alarming, but stopping in a secluded area could put you at risk. “Never pull over in an isolated location if you hear strange noises. Instead, seek a safe, populated area,” Parashar recommends.
If someone throws an object onto your windshield, your instinct might be to activate the wipers. However, Parashar advises against this. “If eggs or mud hit your windshield, do not turn on the wipers as it will worsen the situation. Focus on maintaining control of the vehicle and getting to a safe location rather than stopping in isolation.”
Drivers should also be cautious about how much access they grant to strangers. “Do not fully roll down your windows when approached by individuals who may be intimidating. If you feel uncomfortable, simply drive away,” Parashar states.
He adds, “In case of an emergency, it’s not a crime to protect yourself.” Instead of taking unnecessary risks, contact the relevant emergency services for assistance.
Investing in a dashcam can also provide a record of incidents around your vehicle. “Consider getting a dashcam for additional security,” Parashar recommends.
Finally, visible valuables can attract thieves to parked cars. Parashar advises against leaving items such as phones, laptops, wallets, or jewelry in plain sight. “Never leave valuables like phones, laptops, wallets, or jewelry on seats or anywhere else where they are easily seen,” he warns.
