Becoming a parent is one of life’s most special experiences. However, it also comes with a load of responsibilities and plenty of opportunities for stress. For instance, driving is something that becomes an even bigger responsibility when you welcome a child into your family. And while you can’t control everything on the road, you can take measures to protect the people in your vehicle. Today, Speeding Ticket KC shares some cost-effective ways to new parents can keep their family safe on the road.
Keeping Your Vehicle Maintained
Car maintenance is essential to your family’s safety because it decreases the likelihood of mechanical malfunction and accidents. Staying on top of maintenance will ultimately save you from having to pay hefty repair bills. Be sure to take your vehicle in for routine maintenance, and keep records so that you don’t forget when your appointment is coming up.
Moreover, consider learning how to DIY some basic maintenance tasks so that you don’t have to pay a mechanic for every little issue. Flushing the radiator and changing the engine oil, air filters, spark plugs and windshield wiper blades are all tasks that can be done at home. Of course, you will need to pay for parts and supplies when you work on your own car.
The most important piece of car maintenance is how it is stored. According to Firestone, vehicles that are left outside in the elements run a higher risk of rusting and engine failure. To combat the weather outside and keep your engine running longer, consider building a garage if your house doesn’t have one. Not only will it protect your investment in your vehicle, it will also increase the value of your home if you ever sell. For instance, garages are one of the most popular home amenities available.
Have the Right Auto Insurance
We all know having car insurance is a must, but a lot of people forget that car insurance functions as a financial safety net in the event of an accident. Having this in place is all the more important once you have a family. And while liability coverage is a great way to keep your premiums down, it won’t protect you when it comes to personal injury or damage to your vehicle.
If you don’t already have full coverage, or if you have it but want to cut costs, take the time to compare providers and see if you can find discounts to help lower your monthly premiums. Most of the bigger companies offer bundling discounts in addition to discounts for couples, multiple cars, safe driving practices and even anti-theft devices. With a little digging, you can stay safe and pay less.
Maintaining Focus
When it comes to actually driving your vehicle, nothing is more important than focus. With all the potential distractions these days, you have to make a conscious decision each time you get in the car that you will keep your attention on the road.
One of the biggest distractions can be children themselves. Anytime your newborn is fussy, do not turn around to comfort them. Pull over into a safe parking lot to tend to their needs. Cell phones are another issue while driving; DriveSafe recommends a few strategies like using your cell’s Do-Not-Disturb-While-Driving feature or simply silencing your phone and putting it somewhere out of sight. Focus doesn’t cost anything but effort, and it can help you to avoid preventable accidents.
Not Driving While Drowsy
Along with distractions, you will likely be contending with sleepiness as well. Nonetheless, as Advanced Sleep Medicine Services points out, you should never drive while drowsy. If you ever find yourself yawning excessively, running off the road, drifting from your lane, or displaying any other signs of zoning out, pull over and take a nap. Avoiding driving while drowsy will keep your family safe and potentially save you from the burden of expensive car repairs.
Protecting your child is a top priority when you become a parent, and that should extend to driving. Make sure regular maintenance is performed on your vehicle, and look for deals anytime you need parts or supplies. Consider building a garage if you don’t already have one, and find comprehensive auto insurance you can afford. Finally, be sure to stay focused at all times when driving, and avoid driving when you’re exhausted.
Speeding Ticket KC is a modern traffic law firm in the digital age with an old fashioned personal touch by our Traffic Attorney. Call 816-398-8772.