Please Be Safe.
Tip #1 Avoid Any & All Distractions
Those who are driving around the Upstate region of South Carolina should make it a top goal to avoid distractions while they are behind the wheel in order to keep their safety on the roads a priority this year, just as they have done in the past. There were 82 people who lost their lives in Spartanburg County alone in the year 2023, which is 82 more than anyone would want to see happen. If you want to safeguard your own personal safety, the safety of your family as passengers, and the safety of other drivers and their families who share the road with you, it is vital to reduce the number of interruptions that you experience and enhance your general attention and concentration. The first thing you can do to assist reduce the amount of time you may spend multitasking and increase the amount of time you spend being alert of everything surrounding your car as you navigate our region is to make it a habit to drive without any distractions. This is the first step you can take.
To begin, you should always begin by minimizing interruptions within your own vehicle. This is the first critical step you can take toward driving without distractions. In order to eliminate the need to check your alerts or messages, one of the most fundamental things you can do is to put your mobile phone and any other electronic devices in a location where they are out of reach and to ensure that they are set to silent mode. Make certain that the settings for your mirrors, seat, and climate control are adjusted to your taste before you get behind the wheel of your vehicle. The hassle of needing to make modifications while you are attempting to pay attention and have a safe ride will be avoided as a result of this. It is important that you take care of these items before you even start your automobile so that you can maintain your entire concentration on the road.
The implementation of straightforward strategies that prevent distractions while driving can, in a logical sense, also reduce the likelihood of being engaged in a car accident or hitting anything else. It is important to refrain from engaging in any activities that could potentially divert your attention away from the road, such as eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio. In the event that you are confronted with an urgent situation that requires your attention, it is important to make sure that you carefully select a safe area to pull over the vehicle off the road before you attempt to deal with it. It is essential to bear in mind that your own safety and the safety of others should always be your first priority whenever you are behind the wheel of a car. You are responsible for maintaining control of your vehicle at all times. When a traffic accident occurs, it has a significant impact on a large number of individuals, and we will post below any advice that we can provide to drivers in order to assist them in avoiding accidents.
It is essential to keep in mind that driving while distracted is not only a matter of personal safety and a violation of the law, but it is also a matter of legal liability in the event of any kind of collision. The majority of the collisions that we witness might have been avoided. Allowing distractions from things like phone notifications or texting while driving can not only be unlawful, but it is deemed irresponsible, but it can also be proof of recklessness, which might support the awarding of punitive damages if there were any type of accident .
Secondly: Watch out for motorcycles.
Avoiding distractions is only the first step toward being a safer driver in South Carolina this year; another key factor to consider is keeping an eye out for motorcycles (we often call them Bikes) on the road. Motorcycle awareness is critical for the safety of both riders and other motorists. As a motorist, it is your job to always be aware of your surroundings and to drive defensively, and with our beautiful variety of scenery around Spartanburg, we have many motorcycle tourists coming through, especially on I-26 and I-85.
Motorcycles are readily ignored due to their tiny size, so check your blind spots before changing lanes or making any turn or exiting the highway. Always use your mirrors and take extra precautions when merging or passing motorbikes. Remember that bikes have the same rights as other vehicles on the road, plus they are more vulnerable, so treat them cautiously and with respect.
Sharing the road with motorcyclists entails providing them adequate space and allowing them to maneuver safely. Avoid tailgating motorcyclists since they may need to stop abruptly, and have less protection than drivers in cars or trucks. When following a motorcycle, keep a safe distance to allow for adequate reaction time. Also, be aware of their speed, and aerodynamics as they may accelerate and decelerate faster than vehicles.
Motorcycle riders should always wear safety equipment such as helmets, protective clothing, and boots, even though the law does not require those precautions. As a driver, you may assist keep them safe by being aware of their fragility and providing the necessary space.
Towing safety is crucial in Spartanburg, SC, due to its mix of urban and rural landscapes, which presents unique challenges for drivers. Our operators are dedicated to tow safely. Here's an interesting peek into our world.... and if you have a tow project yourself, there's some great tips we can share with you here.
Whether you're towing a boat to Lake Hartwell or hauling a trailer for work, adhering to safety guidelines can prevent accidents and ensure a smoother driving experience.
First and foremost, ensure your towing vehicle is properly equipped for the load you’re carrying. This includes verifying that your vehicle’s engine, brakes, and tires are in good condition and that your towing capacity matches or exceeds the weight of the trailer or load. The South Carolina Department of Transportation recommends regular maintenance checks to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Proper hitching is another key factor. You'll want to make sure the hitch and coupler are securely attached and that the safety chains are crossed and are firmly connected. This helps to prevent the trailer from detaching in case of a hitch failure. Additionally, it’s vital to adjust your mirrors to provide a clear and an unobstructed view of the trailer and its surroundings. Blind spots can be a significant hazard, especially in busy areas like downtown Spartanburg, or often, Asheville Highway.
When driving, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid any sudden maneuvers, keeping in mind you have much more weight when you are pulling something. Towing increases stopping distances, so allow extra space between you and the car in front. Reduce your speed, particularly on sharp turns and hilly terrain, as these conditions can affect the stability of your trailer or hauler.
Finally, local regulations may impose specific requirements or restrictions. Familiarize yourself with Spartanburg's towing laws, including any permits or special equipment you might need. Staying informed about local rules ensures compliance and enhances safety.
By following these guidelines, you can contribute to safer roads in Spartanburg and reduce the risk of accidents involving towed loads. We want everyone to stay safe out there, and if you need something towed and are unsure of your equipment capability, or your hand at doing the job alone, give us a ring.