DARCARS Nissan of Rockville

Jun 10, 2022

It’s unfortunate, but many drivers develop bad driving habits. Sometimes these habits are due to observing other drivers. These habits can also be due to the belief that they make driving easier. These habits, however, can lead to accidents, a ticket, or both. We’d like to advise you on some of the habits to avoid when you’re driving in Rockville, MD.

Not Wearing a Seatbelt

Seatbelts have been installed in all vehicles manufactured in the US since the 1960s. In Maryland, it’s been a legal requirement to wear a seatbelt since 1986. Any driver who doesn’t wear a seatbelt can receive a ticket for a primary offense from a traffic officer. It’s unfortunate, but despite this legal requirement, there are still drivers who don’t always wear their seatbelts.

Texting and Driving in Rockivlle, MD

Some drivers will argue that they’re only driving a short distance. Other drivers argue they’re restricted by wearing a belt. Regardless of the arguments, seatbelts are a legal requirement, and they will keep you safe. Tests and simulations have shown that wearing a seatbelt will prevent you from being thrown from your car in the event of an accident. They also keep you in the right place when the airbag deploys if you’re involved in an accident.

 

Using a Cellphone

Cellphones are an important part of everyone’s life. There’s no doubt that they are amazing inventions that have revolutionized life. Everyone with a phone has access to enormous amounts of information and the ability to contact anyone, anywhere, at any time. The problem with cell phones is that they’re extremely distracting. Many drivers don’t seem to be able to put their cellphone down.

 

Talking on the phone when you drive or texting on the phone is very dangerous. These actions draw a driver’s attention away from the road. They also delay a driver’s reaction. Preventing an accident may need split-second timing, and a driver paying attention to their phone may not be able to react in time. It’s also important to remember that using a cellphone while you’re driving is illegal.

 

Riding the Brakes

Some drivers develop the habit of riding their brakes by keeping their foot on the brake when they drive. This habit is usually a nervous one, and it develops from a fear of not being able to stop your car in time. The problem with this habit is that it places your braking system under strain, and it will cause damage to the brakes.

 

When you apply the brakes, the brake calipers are pushed against the wheel rotors by hydraulic pressure. When you ride the brakes, the brake pad in the caliper is pushed against the surface of the rotor, but without bringing your car to a stop. The constant contact will cause the pads to become smooth, and this will make applying the brakes more difficult over time.

 

These are just a few signs of bad habits. These tips will help keep you safe and help keep others safe too. For more blogs related to being a Maryland driver, we have you covered at DARCARS Nissan of Rockville.