Checklist ensures road safety

In order to keep drivers safe on the road, the National Safety Council, Chicago, has created a basic checklist for motorists to go over before starting their automobile. While the tips may seem mundane, a study of motorists has found that more than 90% do not utilize them. As roads get slicker and the sun sets earlier with the season's change, it is best to take the proper precautions.

Buckle seatbelts and make sure they are fastened properly. In the last 20 years, an estimated 157,500 lives have been saved by safety belts.

Adjust mirrors. Three out of 10 survey respondents do not adjust their mirrors before short driving trips (two hours or less), when it is more likely you will get in a crash.

Position seat and head restraints. Correctly positioned headrests reduce whiplash injuries resulting from crashes by 28.3%.

Secure loose objects. Only 34% of respondents regularly perform this task, even though, on average, loose items--from luggage to soda cans--are responsible for 13,000 annual injuries.

Turn off cell phones. In the last five years, nearly 300,000 drivers have been involved in crashes attributed to their use.

Look for engine warning lights. Three out of four respondents claim they always look to see if their "check engine" light is on; however, many admitted to doing so while driving. Remember, too, that proper tire pressure is important.

Check your fuel level. In preparing for a trip, it is necessary to ensure you have enough gasoline in your tank to get there and back. Twenty-five percent indicate they do not note their gas level.

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