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. 

1-800-Radiator & A/C Founds Charity for Injured Military Service Members

The 1-800-Radiator & A/C franchise, the fastest growing franchise in the automotive industry, is proud to announce the creation of the 1-800-Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting injured military service members through raising money and awareness for those who have so bravely served our country. 

The Foundation has partnered with the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) — a non-profit service organization committed to empowering injured veterans and their families— to provide support and assistance for our heroic veterans and their loved ones. Through free programs and services, WWP aims to improve the physical, mental, and financial wellbeing of injured service members, as well as their families and caregivers. 

To date, WWP has served approximately 89,000 warriors who have endured a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound while on duty on or after September 11, 2001. The organization has also provided services to nearly 19,000 family members and caregivers of these heroic warriors. These programs and services have included recovery programs, peer support groups, and higher education programs, trainings, and employment assistance services to promote long-term financial stability. 

To learn more about the 1-800-Charitable Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, and how you can help, please click here.