3 Common Driving Mistakes (You May Be Guilty of)

For most motorists, driving has become like second nature. But, just because you have countless years of driving under your belt doesn't mean you aren't making these common driving mistakes. These mistakes not only cause damage to your car, but also they can increase the risk of accidents. 1-800-Radiator and A/C franchises explain the most common driving mistakes and how you can avoid them

  

Mistake #1: You're driving on an empty gas tank

Do you wait until your gas tank is on empty before you think about refueling? Running your car past one-quarter of a tank can cause damage to the engine. While it's always important to keep your gas tank at least one-quarter full, it's especially essential in the wintertime. In fact, during the winter your gas tank shouldn't fall below a half of a tank. The cold weather can cause the gas line to freeze, and if you were to get stranded your engine is the only heat source you have.

Mistake #2: You're driving distracted

When many people hear "distracted driving," then envision teenagers texting while behind the wheel. While texting and driving is a major epidemic, it's not the only distraction drivers have to worry about. There are various types of distractions that impede your focus and attentiveness. Anything that takes your mind and eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel is a distraction. Talking to passengers, adjusting the temperature, eating, or reaching for an object are all distractions. When you get behind the wheel, always maintain complete control and concentration. If you need to eat, check the map or make a phone call, pull over.

Mistake #3: You're not maintaining your vehicle

All vehicles have a maintenance and repair schedule. When you follow this schedule, which is outlined in your owner's manual, then you can maximize the life of your vehicle. Too often, drivers neglect to care for their car and only take it to the mechanic when an issue arises. Make sure you are keeping up with routine maintenance to avoid issues and keep your vehicle operating at peak performance.