Cruise Control Safety Tips in Tampa
Most modern cars are equipped with cruise control, those little buttons on the steering wheel that allow a driver to set a speed and maintain it without actually pressing on the accelerator. This feature was intended to help drivers fight fatigue, and it also helps to reduce the amount of gas used. This convenient feature is typically used by drivers on long trips, but using it incorrectly can be very dangerous.
There are two ways to turn off cruise control on most vehicles. One is by pressing the on/off button that is part of the cruise control setup, and the other is to lightly press the brake. In situations that require the car to slow down or stop very quickly, the best way to do this is to press on the brake, as there might not be time for a driver to look down and press the button.
To increase the reaction time of stepping on the brake, it is recommended that drivers keep one foot by the brake at all times. Although the feet will not be pressing the pedals while cruise control is on, they should never be too far away from the pedals, such as up on the seat. This does not allow for the quick reaction time that may be needed in certain situations.
Furthermore, there are only certain times when cruise control should be used. It is important for drivers to remember that cruise control is really only meant for long trips on open roadways, such as highways. It should never be used in city traffic or times when the driver is going to be stopping and starting often. Not only is it impractical to use cruise control during these situations, it is also unsafe.
Cruise control can also give drivers the false sense that there is little they need to do while driving. But while this feature can maintain the speed of the car, that is all it can do. Drivers still need to pay full attention to the road ahead of them and be prepared to react to any situation. While cruise control can make driving easier, it does not take on all the tasks of the driver. It is important to stay aware of this, and not become distracted by talking on the phone, reaching around the car, or fiddling with the radio.
Lastly, cruise control should never be used in wet conditions. Turning on cruise control when the road is wet can cause the vehicle to hydroplane. While the risk of this is greatest when driving through large puddles, it can happen on roads that are even just slightly wet. In these instances, it is best to err on the side of caution and turn cruise control off altogether.
Cruise control can be very convenient and when used properly, it can actually help keep the driver safer as it reduces fatigue on long trips. But in order to take full advantage of everything this feature offers, it must be used properly. If you want to know more about cruise control safety tips in Tampa, consult one of the qualified car accident lawyers at Slater | Grant that can answer your questions.
