15 car safety mistakes to avoid: From high beams to feet on the dashboard

Car safety is a fundamental concern for drivers and passengers alike. While buckling up is a crucial step, there are additional precautions to ensure safety inside a vehicle. Auto expert Shubham Parashar shares a series of car-safety tips to prevent accidents and injuries.

1. Maintain proper driving posture. Position yourself at an appropriate distance from the steering wheel, ensuring your wrists rest on the wheel with slightly bent elbows. This helps maintain control during a collision.

2. Use low beam headlights in traffic. High beams can impair the vision of oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. Always switch to low beam when driving in traffic.

3. Never rest your feet on the dashboard. Doing so can lead to severe injuries if the airbags deploy. Always keep your feet on the floor while driving.

4. Children should not sit on an adult's lap. They are too close to the dashboard and airbags, making them vulnerable to serious injuries. Always use appropriate child seats for added safety.

5. Keep the headrest intact. Headrests are designed to prevent whiplash injuries during a crash. Removing them can result in severe neck injuries.

6. Avoid hair accessories that can cause injuries. Women should refrain from using plastic or metal clips, as they can cause harm during a collision due to whiplash movements.

7. Inspect your car before getting in. Check for any suspicious signs, such as a lower suspension, indicating unauthorized access. If anything seems unusual, assess the situation from a safe distance rather than entering the vehicle.

8. Utilize a vehicle tracker with geofencing. This provides additional awareness, especially when others use the car. Set a geofence and grant access to trusted individuals to receive alerts if the car takes an unusual route.

9. Periodically check for unfamiliar tracking devices. Inspect areas of the car that are not frequently accessed, such as the boot, glove box, and armrest storage, for any trackers or bugs. If discovered, seek help from authorities or trusted individuals.

10. Avoid stopping in isolated places when suspicious noises occur. If you suspect an issue with your vehicle, avoid stopping in isolated areas. Instead, find a safe and populated location to address the concern.