Navigating the Roads of Bedford: A Call for Safe Driving
There is one thing we each can do to support Bedford as a great place to live, work, and raise a family, and that is to be attentive to the road, obey traffic laws, and remind our kids about safe driving. As your Police Chief, I have the unfortunate job of seeing just how many accidents are occurring on our roads and knowing that so many of them are avoidable just by taking our time, obeying the rules of the road, and staying focused on driving. The technology in our cars and hands, as well as passengers, the radio, and roadside attractions, all are pulling for our attention, but we as drivers have a responsibility to block it all out to ensure the well-being of every individual on our streets. Here are some keys to remember and discuss.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Traffic laws are the cornerstone of road safety. They provide structure and order to our streets, guiding us safely to our destinations. From speed limits to traffic signals, adherence to these regulations is non-negotiable. Lead by example and stop at the stop sign, even though others might not. Please recall the rule to look left, then right, then left again before proceeding into a roadway. Look at the big picture at all times; there is no tunnel vision.
- Avoid Distractions: In today's digital age, distractions abound, tempting drivers to divert their attention from the road. Whether it's a phone call, a text message, or adjusting the radio, these distractions can have dire consequences. Stay focused on the task at hand – driving. Your undivided attention could prevent a potential tragedy.
- Wear Your Seatbelt: Seatbelts are your first line of defense in the event of a collision. Buckle up every time you enter a vehicle, regardless of the distance you are going. Seatbelts save lives, and wearing yours is a simple yet powerful commitment to your safety and the safety of others. Don’t let peer pressure get in the way of safety.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Tailgating is not only aggressive but also dangerous. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for ample reaction time. Remember, it's better to arrive a few minutes later than to risk a collision.
- Use Your Mirrors and Check Blind Spots: Your mirrors are your allies in navigating traffic, but they're not infallible. Always shoulder check to verify the presence of vehicles in your blind spots before changing lanes or making a turn. Checking blind spots can prevent accidents and save lives.
- Avoid Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs endangers everyone on the road. It impairs your judgment, slows your reaction time, and increases the likelihood of a crash. If you plan to partake or just end up doing so, designate a sober driver or utilize car services.
- Be Mindful of Weather Conditions: New Hampshire's weather can be unpredictable, presenting various challenges for drivers of all ages. From icy roads to heavy rain, adjust your driving behavior accordingly. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and leave earlier to give yourself more time to arrive safely.
- Stay Calm and Patient: Patience is a virtue, especially behind the wheel. Traffic congestion and delays are inevitable, but how we respond to them matters. Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, weaving through traffic, or honking incessantly. Stay calm, be courteous, and respect your fellow drivers. Change your routine so that you leave a little earlier to help reduce your stress.
- Practice Defensive Driving: Defensive driving is about anticipating and reacting to potential hazards before they escalate into emergencies. Stay vigilant, scan your surroundings, and anticipate the actions of other drivers. Always leave yourself an out should something happen in front of you on the road.
- Set a Good Example: Be a positive role model for young drivers by practicing safe driving habits yourself. Your actions and attitudes towards driving can influence their behavior on the road. Provide ongoing supervision and constructive feedback to young drivers as they gain experience.
- Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained: A well-maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle. Regularly check your brakes, tires, lights, and fluids to ensure they are in optimal condition. By addressing maintenance issues promptly, you minimize the risk of mechanical failures while on the road.
In conclusion, safe driving is not just a responsibility; it's a commitment to protecting lives and promoting a better Bedford. Please pledge to uphold these principles every time you venture onto the roads. Please talk with your family about the importance of safe driving. While we issue licenses starting at age 16, our young drivers are still beginners and need many years of experience to fully anticipate everything that may happen on a roadway. As adults, we can make a difference. Please set a good example and help ensure that every journey is safe.
Drive safely, Bedford.
DIRECTION ONLY - Pls don't print this line. Can we put this in a shadowbox or sidebar?
Tips for teens
By the National Transportation Safety Board
Safe driving begins with
Good behaviors behind the wheel
Don’t forget to:
Buckle your seat belt
Put the phone away
Always drive sober
Avoid drowsy driving
Limit the number of passengers in the car
Follow the speed limit
Prepare your emergency information