(Newswire.net — September 28, 2018) — Whether you’re sending your kids off to university in their own vehicles, or getting ready for the morning carpool ride, it’s good to give your car a checkup before back to school season hits full swing. The roads are going to be full of kids making their way to school, and crossing guards on the road. To make sure you’re following driving rules and regulations, follow these 5 tips for back to school vehicle safety.
1. Brush Up on Crosswalk Driving Laws
Even if you have been driving for years, it’s good to brush up on the rules and regulations that are necessary for driving in school areas. According to the Government of Ontario,” It is up to both drivers and pedestrians to keep everyone safe on Ontario roads. Learn the rules for pedestrian crossings, the penalties for endangering pedestrians and get tips for driving and walking safely.”
2. Inspect Your Car’s Brakes
It goes without saying that the brakes are the most important part of your vehicle, but it’s never more important than when you’re driving a car in school areas. Sometimes children don’t look both ways before crossing the street, or parents are on their cell phones while dropping their children off. You want to make sure that your brakes are in peak condition just in case.
3. Check Your Tire Pressure
The manual for your vehicle should indicate the proper tire pressure for your car, but if you’ve had a service check recently, it’s not necessary to take your car in again. Take a look at your tires before you get on the road. Do they look like they’re inflated properly? Do they feel good while you are driving? Feel the outer edge of your tires to check for puncture wounds, and make sure the treads still have good grip. If you want to make extra certain, unscrew the cap on the valve stem and press the tire gauge against the valve stem. The digital gauge should provide you with a reading of tire pressure.
4. Check All of Your Fluid Levels
This is a super simple check that could save you a call to your roadside assistance provider. Check to make sure that the power steering fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, motor oil and coolant are all at the appropriate levels and refer to your owners manual for guidelines.
5. Update Your Emergency Kit
Your emergency kit for your vehicle should include jumper cables, a quart of motor oil, a gallon of coolant, a first-aid kit, blankets, flashlights, batteries, and a tool kit. Make sure that you have these items, and that none of them are expired or in need of replacement. It’s always good to be prepared on the road.
Back to school is a high stress time, but if you follow proper safety protocols, you’ll be all set for the year ahead! Make sure that your insurance policy is up to date and has the coverage you need for you and your family. If you’re not satisfied with your current policy, compare your car insurance to other leading providers on the market to make sure you’re getting the best possible price.