Long drives can be really difficult. Your leg cramps from holding your foot in the same position or your favorite song comes on and distracts you. The office of Lerner and Rowe would like to offer you these Chicago cruise control safety tips.
Chicago cruise control safety tips
The use of a cruise control system is a wonderful relief for many drivers. It allows you to maintain a minimum speed (25 miles per hour or more) without watching the speedometer or keeping your foot on the gas. When utilized properly, it helps you arrive fresh and ready to go, rather than drained and feeling the last hundred miles.
When driving in Chicago proper, avoid this system. With the possibility of heavy traffic, wet or slick roads, and pedestrians, safety becomes questionable. On winding roads, fast wheel changes can result in loss of control and spin-outs. Ultimately, it’s too dangerous to use when you are moving your steering wheel often.
Cruise control’s main benefit eliminates the need for the driver to monitor their speed. This system also can have a positive effect on gas consumption by reducing sudden braking.
Cruise control’s drawbacks include that it may change driver reaction time. It can be dangerous when you cannot drive safely at a constant speed.
Its systems don’t connect to the brakes and cannot prevent a vehicle from speeding when traveling down a steep hill.
Tips for Safe Use:
- Only use it in good weather conditions.
- Build up your speed gradually. 55 to 70 miles per hour – the generally-allowed speed on highways – is ideal for cruise control.
- Once you have reached your desired speed, turn on your cruise control system – usually buttons located on the steering wheel.
- Next, set the cruise control and take your foot off the gas.
- Carefully watch the road carefully and allow additional reaction time to deactivate the cruise control system before stopping or slowing.
- To slow down, either tap the button on the cruise control system or tap the brake, which stops the cruise control system.
While cruise control helps drivers maintain constant speed and reduce fatigue, they must still be aware of their surroundings in case it needs to be deactivated quickly to avoid an accident. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, please contact us today.