Automobile Safety

In recent years, CIEE has seen an increase in the number of program participants involved in serious automobile accidents while in the US, some of which have resulted in participant fatalities. In many of these cases, serious injury or even death could have been avoided if participants had made the simple choice to wear seatbelts. In an effort to properly advise participants of the risks associated with auto driving in the US, we have included the following section on basic safety tips, and would urge you to review it carefully before making the decision to drive while in the US.

Driving in the US

The United States is a country where driving a car is often the fastest and occasionally even the only way to get from one place to another. Even if not part of your daily routin e, some of you may choose car travel as a way to see the sights and enjoy different activities during your free time . However, before making the decision to become an auto driver in the US, you should carefully consider the responsibility you are taking on and the risks associated with driving. Even if you are an experienced driver, the specific rules, signs and practices of driving in the US will be different than those you are accustomed to at home.

If you do choose to drive while in the US, we urge you to use caution at all times, and to pay special attention to the following road safety tips :

• When riding in a car, wear your seatbelt - when fastened correctly, seatbelts save lives. Lap belts should be kept low and snug over the hips, while shoulder belts should always be worn across the chest.
• Don't drink and drive - alcohol is a significant contributing factor in road fatalities .
• Use good judgment - don't get in a car with anyone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Do not exceed legal speed limits - remember that speed limits are a maximum, not a target .
• Respect others on the road - watch out for pedestrians, motorbikes and bicycles; be courteous to these road users at all times
• Be prepared for bad weather and treacherous roads - in case of bad weather (rain, snow, ice, fog, dust, wind) listen to weather reports. If weather is bad, allow extra travel time, reduce speed and increase following distance for extra maneuverability. Stay home if weather is too severe and roads are unsafe to travel.
• Take frequent breaks - never drive tired and take breaks every two hours on long journeys
• Know the rules of the road - familiarize yourself with the US driving laws and customs. These may differ from the ones in your home country
• All automobiles must be insured - car insurance is required for every car on the road in the US. If you get into an accident in an uninsured car, you may personally be liable for the medical and repair costs of all parties involved in the accident.
• Motorcycles - driving or riding on a Motorcycle is not covered on your CIEE Insurance policy.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of tips that will keep you safe if you choose to own or operate an automobile. Every time you drive you run the risk of injury to yourself or someone else. Use good judgment and stay safe.