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We live in a mobile society. Everyone drives everywhere. Just look at the line of cars in a fast-food drive through restaurant. People spend a lot of time in cars, commuting to work, driving kids to school and after school activities, and, of course, vacations.
Now we know that travel in automobiles of any kind has inherent risks. Since all of us are in vehicles for a significant period of time most everyday, the risk of exposure time is significant. So, what can we do to decrease the consequences of a collision?
1. First and foremost, always wear seatbelts and have small children safely secured in the proper car seat/infant seat. Remember, children should not be allowed to ride in the front seat until they reach adult size. Air bags should be disabled when a small adult or preteen child is in the front seat.
2. Do not use cell phones for calls or texting while driving, at any time.
3. Do not discipline or try to discipline children while you are driving. Pull over to a safe parking area until the conflict is resolved. Note well that children do not like a stopped car. Explain that the car will not be moving until there is peace and quiet.
4. Visibility is of paramount importance. Be certain that windows, windshields and rear-view mirrors are clean. Also, be sure that windshield wiper blades are clean and will clear the windshield without streaking. Rain-X is an excellent product to use on windshields and all windows, mirrors, etc. When driving at highway speed with a fresh application of Rain-X (reapply monthly), windshield wipers are usually not needed and visibility is greatly improved. Do not have objects hanging from the rear-view mirror. They are distracting and definitely reduce visibility.
5. Automobile maintenance – Always check tire pressure, radiator fluid level, transmission and oil level, especially when going on a long trip. It is always a good idea to check the spare tire air pressure. A good quality set of jumper cables should be available. And, of course, keep the fuel tank filled and don’t let the gauge drop below one quarter full level. Be certain to have a good quality flashlight, which works, available. A first aid kit should be available as well as a child’s potty and tissue.
6. Cold weather travel – If travel will be in very cold weather, wear warm clothing, have gloves and blankets available, plus bottled water.
7. Navigation – Have up-to-date maps available. A GPS is a great travel navigation accessory, but be careful and do not stare at the screen. Print out maps from google maps and review them before starting your trip if the destination route is uncertain.
8. Highway safety – Obey traffic signals and signs, and drive at the posted speed limit. Try to anticipate the moves of other drivers. Paying attention to your driving is even more critical than ever because of the significant and increased use of cell phones and texting by other drivers.
9. Do not ever leave a child unattended in a car. Be sure that you have your keys in your pocket/purse when leaving your car and always lock your car. Use remote unlock when approaching your car so that you can get in immediately without fumbling for keys.
Dr. Freeman completed medical school in 1973 and started in private practice in 1975 in Opelika, before practicing in Auburn. Dr. Freeman has served as Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer for the Medical Association for the State of Alabama, was a member of the Medicaid DUR Board, member of the Medicaid Pharmacy and Therapeutic Board and is on the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Alabama. He is married to Sherry Spann Freeman and they have two children and six grandchildren.
Pediatric Associates of Auburn
At Pediatric Associates of Auburn, our board certified pediatricians, Doctors Freeman, Royal, and Stubblefield, along with our staff are committed to providing accessible and quality healthcare to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. We offer routine well child visits, sports physicals, in-office laboratory services, same day acute visits for sick children and many more convenient services.
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