A lot of my mommy friends find my driving funny because I don’t usually go beyond 60 km/h (unless I’m on the expressway). Well, I wasn’t always this way. I used to push the car up to 120 km/h, going left-to-right-to-left just so I can pass slow drivers. This kind of driving got me to my destination fast and… it was fun.
Everything changed when I became a mom. I am now responsible for the lives of two little ones so I knew I can’t drive like a pro racer wannabe anymore. And so my safe driving practices began. However, what I realized is that it although I am practicing safe driving, accidents will still occur if other drivers are not doing the same thing. Fellow drivers, try to understand when a mom/dad is driving. We can’t really step on the gas and zoom away because we have little ones on board–so please stop blowing your horns at us!
Which brings me to Ford Philippines’ “Driving Skills for Life” campaign. It’s actually very simple. All you need to do is to like their Facebook page then click the iPledge tab, which is located right under the cover photo. Register with your name and contact information, choose a pledge that you want to make for a family member or friend (must have a Facebook account too), then take the pledge.
What’s in it for you?
Three pledges will earn you a badge. Each badge entitles you to a car sticker (to be mailed) and a e-card replica. Note that only the first 500 badge earners will receive a car sticker. BUT, more than the freebies, taking a pledge should be a reminder for you to drive safe not only for yourself, but for others too. Who knows? Your pledge might save a life!
Helpful Safe Driving Tips I Learned from the Driving Skills for Life Seminar (That I Didn’t Know About)
- Is the rain giving you a hard time driving? Then take a quick break and stop over at a gas station or a mall until road visibility is much better. If you must continue driving, do not turn the hazard lights on since this will only confuse other drivers when you need to change lanes. Instead, turn your head lights on, which will automatically turn your tail lights on as well.
- Keep a safe 3-second distance from the car in front of you. To measure this, simply look for a stationary object like a post. If you pass by the post 3 seconds later, then your distance is safe. If road visibility is not so good, increase your distance.
Of course, other tips that we all know, but sometimes do not follow are:
- Always wear your seat belt
- Secure your kids in car seats
- Drive relaxed!
- Avoid distractions while driving (i.e. using the mobile phone)
- Check your car before leaving
What are you waiting for? Take the pledge to drive safe today!