Final answer:
To minimize risk while driving, evaluate your well-being, environmental conditions, and vehicle's state. Ensure to use safety measures like seat belts, check vehicle safety features, and plan your route. Also, practice safe behaviors to protect yourself and take economic and environmental factors into consideration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before getting behind the wheel, it is essential to assess your risk related to the three main elements of driving; evaluate your own well-being, environmental conditions, and your vehicle. Environment refers to both external and internal conditions that affect driving, such as weather, road types, traffic congestion, and time of day. As part of developing greater self-awareness, you should take into account personal characteristics that can affect your driving, such as fatigue, stress, and any physical or emotional impairments.
Some steps you can take to ensure safety include:
- Using seat belts and ensuring all passengers do too
- Checking that your vehicle's safety features, like brakes and headlights, are functioning correctly
- Preparing for any external factors like heavy traffic or inclement weather
- Researching and planning your route to avoid unforeseen complications
Practice safe behaviors to protect your nervous system and control your body's internal systems, such as by wearing appropriate safety gear for different activities. Additionally, consider factors like gasoline prices when planning trips to ensure you are making economical and environmentally friendly decisions.