Know the rules of the road and obey them.

Wear your seat belt.

Keep your eyes on the road.

In residential areas, watch for children and pets.

Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists.

Don't follow too closely-you need enough distance to stop in time if the driver in front of you stops short.

If you are tired, find a safe place to pull off the road and take a nap.

Use your signals to let other drivers know what you are going to do.

Keep your car in good working order. Lights, signals, and brakes must work properly.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to handle the road properly.

Avoid distractions-do not talk on a cell phone (handheld or hands-free), do not text-message, and do not play with the radio or MP3 player.

Do not let passengers distract you.

Do not engage in reckless behavior, such as racing another car.

Do not let road rage get the best of you. Encounters with aggressive drivers often end badly.

Never drive while under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or medications that can make you sleepy.