Wichita Falls Area Association Of

The following articles are good reminders for all of us to consider as we start to travel this summer:

Driving Tips to Help You Keep Your Eyes on the Road

1. Secure the dog. Make sure all occupants, including animals, are secured before starting. You don’t want your dog jumping in your lap while in busy traffic.

2. Put away the phone. Using your phone is a huge distraction, even hands-free. Remember, it is against the law in Texas to use a cell phone in a school zone.

3. Prepare the radio, CD or other music source before you start. Fiddling with the dials or buttons on the dash takes your eyes off the road.

4. Avoid liquid spills. Store loose cups, cans or bottles securely before starting. Cans rolling underfoot or even in the trunk will be a distraction.

5. Eat before or after the trip. Avoid eating, drinking, or even smoking while driving. These all take at least one hand from the steering wheel as well as taking your eyes off the road.

6. Know your driving route. Google a map or set up the GPS-based navigation device before you begin. Trying to type an address into your cell phone while driving is asking for trouble.

7. Get comfortable. Adjust the seat and rear view mirror ahead of time so you are comfortable and have clear vision. Don’t clutter the dash with items that may distract you or interfere with your vision.

Have a safe trip, whether to the store or on your vacation.

Driving tips for vacation trip.

1. Check oil and tire pressure before you start. 2. Take a break from driving every two hours. Get out and stretch. 3. Get plenty of sleep before you start. 4. Know the state laws for cell phone use. Find them at http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html 5. Find the cheapest gas with a cell phone app. 6. Avoid alcohol. It can make you sleepy. 7. Watch the weather. Avoid inclement conditions. 8. Have a good map on hand. The GPS may be wrong or not functioning.

Article provided by Jim Carpenter District 9 I&PS Chairman Don’t Find Yourself “Under Pressure” This Summer on the Roadways

The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) is reminding consumers that poorly maintained, underinflated tires not only put them at risk, they also add expenses at the gas pump. According to a recent survey, only 15% of Americans properly check their tire pressure. “No road trip should start without first checking tire pressure and inspecting tires for damage and insufficient tread depth,” said Dan Zielinski, RMA senior vice president of public affairs. “Vehicles with underinflated tires burn more gas and have a greater risk of tire damage that may lead to failure. Consumers who are tire smart and maintain tires will help keep their families safe, keep more money in their wallet and help the environment.” Approximately 1.2 billion gallons of fuel are wasted each year by U.S. motorists driving on under-inflated tires. A 2015 RMA survey found that more than 30% of U.S. drivers are less concerned about gas mileage performance since gas prices have dropped over the past year. Fifty percent of drivers ages 18-29 say they are unconcerned with gas mileage performance. Tire care shouldn’t take a back seat because of lower gas prices. National Tire Safety Week is a good time to start a habit of regular, monthly tire maintenance to help promote safety, save money at the gas pump, and help tires last. Other RMA survey findings include:  Only 17% of drivers are “tire smart” or know how to properly check tire pressure.

 One out of three drivers don’t know that tires should be checked “cold” before driving.  35% of drivers do not know how to tell if their tires are bald.

 Nearly six (6) out of 10 drivers do not check the tire pressure in their spare tire.  Four (4) in 10 drivers believe they can tell if a tire is underinflated just by looking at it.  Half of all drivers don’t know where to find the correct inflation pressure for their vehicle. (Label on a vehicle’s driver side door or owner’s manual; not tire sidewall.)