7 Things Every Driver Must Know and Have

As a car owner and driver, you need to equip yourself with the right knowledge and tools to stay safe on the road. This way, not only do you know what to do during emergencies, but you also have the right tools to handle them.

Here are some of the most important things you must know and have in your car before you drive anywhere:

Know: Your Car’s Features

Not all cars are created equal. Of course, some parts are present in any vehicle, like the steering wheel and the engine. Beyond mandatory components, however, there are certain features and qualities that you need to know.

For example, some cars may feature child locks on the rear doors only with regards to safety features. Meanwhile, some models may have child locks on the front passenger door as well. If you aren’t familiar with this detail, you may think there’s something wrong with your car.

The best thing to do is to familiarise yourself with all of your car’s features by reading the owner’s manual. Don’t just let it sit in the glove box. Take it out and commit to reading it. There is to know about your car when you know everything, and you can drive more confidently.

Have: A Reliable Mechanic and Auto Parts Supplier

It doesn’t matter if you’re the most careful, most mindful driver on the planet. Your car will still need maintenance due to natural wear and tear. There’s also the occasional mishap that might require repairs or replacements.

Thus, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic you can trust. If you need to leave your car overnight or even for a few days, you can rest easy knowing that it’s in good hands.

At the same time, you also need to find a reliable auto parts supplier. (This site, for example, provides parts for various Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models.) Using high-quality components ensures the longevity of your car’s systems and top-notch performance. It also ensures that you get the most value for your money.

Know: Road Signs

You might think that it’s common knowledge, but some drivers aren’t as familiar with road signs as they should. Even long-time drivers may end up forgetting the most common road signs. Thus, it’s wise to refamiliarise yourself with road signs every so often.

If you’re licensed to drive in other countries, you should also know the road signs for those places. Some countries or even cities may have unique signs, such as Moose Crossing signs that can be found in Canada and some US states. And of course, there are Kangaroo Crossing signs in Australia.

When you understand road signs, you can not only avoid traffic violations but also ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers and other fellow road users.

Have: A Set of Jumper Cables

One of the main reasons your car won’t start is a dead or discharged battery. This situation can be upsetting or even panic-inducing if you’re caught unaware—that is, if you don’t have jumper cables with you.

With jumper cables in your car’s tool kit, you can quickly jump-start your vehicle using an external power source. You don’t even have to be an auto mechanical or electrical expert to be able to use jumper cables! What’s more, having these wires allows you to help other drivers who may get stranded on the road.

Have: A Tyre Inflator

Even if a car tire isn’t punctured or damaged, it will eventually lose pressure over time. Usually, this is caused by temperature changes, impact braking, or even altitude. If you notice that your car’s tires aren’t properly inflated, it’s best to have it back up to its ideal psi. Driving with under-inflated tires can cause a variety of problems, including shortened lifespan and even blowouts.

You can either bring your car to a shop to have your tires inflated, or you can do it yourself with a portable inflator. While you’re at it, you may also want to purchase a tire pressure gauge. Some inflators also come with a built-in gauge if you’d instead buy just one product.

Know: The Correct Tyre Pressure

Speaking of properly inflated tires, you should know your car manufacturer’s recommended psi (pounds per square inch). This is indicated in your owner’s manual and a sticker or an engraving inside the driver’s side door. It’s a good idea to memorize it, but it’s also good to know that you have an easily accessible reference just in case you forget.

Have: A First Aid Kit

Finally, a first aid kit is a must-have for any car owner. Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, and it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality. With a first aid kit, you can provide immediate care while waiting for emergency medical response. This can mean the difference between life and death.

Ensure adhesive tape, bandages, cotton swabs, disinfectant, gauze, and hand sanitizer in your first aid kit. Some over-the-counter medications may also be handy, including those for fever and pain relief. If you’re in an accident, you’ll need to rely on paramedics and your car accident lawyer to recover any medical costs for you. However, it can be useful to keep additional supplies for warmth (if you crash in cold weather).

Depending on your circumstances, you may need other must-have items. For example, parents would likely benefit from having a ready package of wipes for quick clean-ups. Thus, consider this list as a generic one that applies to any driver.

Happy and safe travels!

Related Articles:

• Recovering Compensation for Injuries Caused by Reckless Drivers
• Feature-Packed Vehicles for Rural Family Drivers