Even if you have many years of experience behind the wheel, it always pays to be extra careful while driving.

Drive at a moderate, steady speed for optimal reaction time. Reaction time to changing road conditions decreases at higher speeds.

Observe the speed limit in school zones and be extra careful especially during peak hours when there is much more human and vehicle traffic.

Taligating is a dangerous habit as it reduces the reaction time a driver has if the car in front of you brakes suddenly.

Don't road hog - This refers to driving slowly on a lane meant for faster traffic and thus causing a slow-down in traffic movement.

Defensive driving will prepare you to react to other drivers' actions. It involves looking out for brake lights, sudden lane changes and merging traffic. It also allows you to pre-empt the unexpected.

If the steering wheel veers right or left when the car is travelling in a straight line, the wheels may be misaligned. Get them checked as soon as possible.

Avoid changing radio stations or CD tracks while driving. Have all these properly set up before you start the journey.

When driving, put your focus on the road conditions. Never drink and drive, or use your handphone while driving.

Extracted from: The Straits Times newspaper