August Is National Dog Month – Dog Safety in the Car

Hello, human. I'm your dog. You may know me as Buddy, Bella, Max, Luna, or Ryder. I actually have a much cooler name in dog world, but that is a story for a different day.

First of all, Happy National Dog Month! I assume you've already bought me a present. If not, I'll accept bacon.

Now let's talk about one of my favorite things in the entire universe...

Car rides!

The moment you pick up your keys, I come running like you just announced free steak for everyone. I don't know where we're going, but I'm 100% convinced it's somewhere amazing.

Maybe it's the dog park.  Maybe it's the beach. Maybe it's Grandma's house, where somebody always "accidentally" drops food on the floor.

Or maybe we're just driving to the veterinarian. ...Let's not dwell on that possibility.

You've probably seen that famous picture of a happy dog riding down the road with its head out the window. Ears flying. Tongue hanging out. Drool launching into the breeze like a sprinkler system. Trust me—it feels incredible.

The smells! Every second is a brand-new adventure. I can detect hamburgers, squirrels, another dog, freshly cut grass, someone's barbecue, and that suspicious-looking raccoon that walked through the neighborhood three hours ago.

But here's an important confession: Just because I enjoy something doesn't automatically make it a brilliant idea. I also enjoy eating socks.

Buckle Me Up!

You wear a seat belt. I should too.

If I'm bouncing around the car while you're driving, I can distract you at exactly the wrong moment. Maybe another dog walks by. Maybe I spot a squirrel with a suspicious attitude. Maybe I simply decide that your lap is the best place to sit while you're trying to merge onto the interstate.

You're welcome.

A crash-tested pet harness attached to the seat belt or a secured travel crate helps protect both of us. If you have to brake suddenly—or if another driver makes a poor decision—I won't go flying through the vehicle. Being called a "furry projectile" isn't nearly as cute as it sounds.

The Front Seat Looks Great...

...but it really isn't. I know I look adorable sitting in the passenger seat like your personal road-trip buddy. I also look adorable wearing a birthday hat. That doesn't mean I should do it while airbags are involved.

Airbags are designed for adult humans. If one deploys while I'm sitting in front, it could seriously injure me. The back seat may not have the best view, but it is usually the safest place for me to ride.

Besides, I can still supervise your driving from there.

About That Window...

Oh, I absolutely want you to roll it down. Just... not all the way.

Tiny rocks, insects, road debris, and tree branches don't care how cute I am. They can injure my eyes or face if I'm hanging too far outside the vehicle.

Please crack the window enough so I can enjoy the fresh air without attempting to become the world's first canine hood ornament.

Don't worry. My nose is about 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than yours. I can still smell that hamburger from three blocks away.

Please Don't Leave Me in a Parked Car

"I'll only be gone for a minute." Humans say this all the time. Even when the weather feels pleasant outside, the inside of a parked vehicle can become dangerously hot very quickly. Dogs can't cool ourselves as effectively as humans because we don't sweat the way you do.

If you can't take me inside with you, it's usually much safer to leave me comfortably at home. I'll survive.

I may act dramatically about it...

...but I'll survive.

Pack My Travel Bag

Road trips are much more enjoyable when you remember a few essentials, so I made a list for you! Please bring fresh water, my leash, waste bags, my favorite blankie or toy, and treats, lots and lots of treats, and bacon, ohhh bacon.

Now, if you'll excuse me... I think I heard someone opening a bag of chips.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

How to Navigate Roundabouts

For many drivers, the word roundabout may bring to mind the famously chaotic traffic circle surrounding the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, where 12 major avenues meet. Take heart! That is an extreme example—and it is not the same as the modern roundabouts you will encounter on U.S. roads.

Note the following steps to take when approaching a roundabout.

Slow down and observe vehicles around you

1. Reduce speed as you approach the roundabout. Watch for pedestrians in the crosswalk, bicyclists, traffic signs, pavement markings, and vehicles already in the roundabout.
2. Look to your left for traffic already circling the roundabout. Look for road signs and lane markings showing which exit you need to be in.
3. Communicate to other drivers by using your car's turn signals.
4. Yield if necessary. If the roundabout is clear and no pedestrian or other road user requires you to yield, you do not need to stop. Proceed at a safe speed.

Yield to traffic already in the roundabout

Yield the right-of-way to vehicles already circulating in the roundabout.                 

Choose your lane before entering

At a multilane roundabout, use the signs and pavement arrows to choose the correct lane for your destination. The right lane is often used for a right turn or straight movement, while the left lane may be used for straight or later exits. However, lane assignments vary, so always follow the posted signs and pavement markings.

Stay in your lane

Stay in your lane while traveling through the roundabout. Do not change lanes unless the roundabout's markings direct or permit you to do so and the maneuver can be made safely. If you realize you are in the wrong lane, follow that lane rather than making a sudden lane change.

Exit carefully

1. Check your mirrors and blind spots.
2. Use your right turn signal as you prepare to exit the roundabout so other road users know where you intend to leave. Follow any additional signaling requirements in your state.
3. Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles alongside you.
4. Leave the roundabout smoothly without braking suddenly.

Caution near trucks

Give large vehicles extra room. Trucks and buses may need more than one lane or may use the raised truck apron around the center island. Never drive alongside a large truck through a roundabout.

Why even use roundabouts?

Roundabouts can improve both safety and traffic flow. Their curved design encourages drivers to slow down, while one-way circulation reduces the number of places where vehicles can cross paths. This greatly reduces the risk of severe head-on and angle crashes that can occur at traditional intersections. Because drivers can often enter without coming to a complete stop when traffic is clear, roundabouts can also reduce delays, idling, and fuel use. That's why you see more and more roundabouts in the United States.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

What Is Commentary Driving?

Imagine you're driving down the road and talking out loud to yourself, saying things like:

"Green light ahead... pedestrian waiting on the corner... car slowing in front of me... checking my mirrors... cyclist on the right... plenty of space to change lanes."

This does not (necessarily) mean that you are in love with the sound of your voice! In reality, you're practicing commentary driving. This is one of the best ways to improve your awareness and decision-making behind the wheel.

What Is Commentary Driving?

Commentary driving is the habit of saying out loud what you see, what you think might happen, and what you plan to do next. Advanced driver training programs have used this technique for many years because it helps drivers stay mentally engaged with the road.

Instead of simply reacting to situations as they happen, commentary driving encourages you to look farther ahead, identify potential hazards early, and make safe decisions before a problem develops.

Why Does It Work?

Your brain processes information more effectively when you actively describe what you're seeing. By putting your observations into words, you're less likely to overlook important details or let your mind wander. Commentary driving can help you with the following:

- Improve observation skills
- Recognize hazards sooner
- Reduce distractions
- Stay focused during long drives
- Build confidence as a new driver
- Develop safer driving habits

It's a little like giving your brain a running checklist while you drive.

What Should You Talk About?

You don't have to describe every mailbox or squirrel you pass. Instead, focus on information that affects safe driving. You might say things like:

- “I just saw a deer crossing the road ahead. Are there others following?”
- "The speed limit just changed to 35 mph."
- "That vehicle ahead has its brake lights on."
- "The traffic light has been green for a while—it could change soon."
- "There's a child playing near the sidewalk."
- "I'll leave extra following distance because the pavement is wet."
- "The driver beside me keeps drifting toward the lane line."

Notice that many of these comments involve predicting what might happen rather than simply describing what already happened.

It's Not Just for New Drivers

Even experienced drivers can benefit from commentary driving, especially if they know that their attention is waning. Many crashes happen because drivers become comfortable, distracted, or simply stop paying close attention. Commentary driving helps prevent "autopilot mode," where you arrive at your destination and barely remember the trip. (If you've ever wondered, "Wait... how did I already get here?" you've probably experienced it.)

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

8 Tips for Finding Deals When Purchasing a Vehicle

Buying a car or truck doesn't have to empty your bank account. With a little preparation and smart shopping, you can find a great deal that fits both your needs and your budget. 

Here are some practical tips to help you save money on your vehicle purchase:

1. Decide on your budget before you shop

How much can you comfortably afford before shopping for a vehicle?  Be sure to include expenses like insurance, registration, fuel, and possible repair costs and preventive maintenance, not just the monthly payment.

2. Research vehicle prices in your area

Compare prices of the vehicle you're interested in by using not only a variety of reputable automotive websites, but also comparing prices of dealerships, private sellers, and certified pre-owned programs. If one dealership's price seems almost too good to be true, double-check what's included. Sometimes "great deal" is followed by a very long list of extra fees.

Note: Know the average market value of the vehicle you have in mind. You can easily find a vehicle's market value online using trusted resources like Kelley Blue Book, which provides reliable pricing based on your local market.

3. Consider buying a used vehicle

A gently used vehicle often offers the best value. Buying used can provide outstanding savings while still offering modern safety features and reliability.

Many used vehicles are only a few years old, have low mileage, and still include part of the original factory warranty.

4. Time your purchase

If you are not in a hurry and you have time to look around for the best deals, the timing of your purchase can help significantly to save you money on the purchase of a vehicle. 

Note: Dealerships may offer discounts on vehicles at the end of the month, but especially at the end of the year when they are trying to clear inventory for the next year's models. 

5. Look for manufacturer incentives

Many automakers offer cash rebates, low-interest financing, lease specials, or discounts for students, military members, and recent graduates. Ask the salesperson about available incentives before making your purchase.

Some manufacturers also offer loyalty or conquest incentives for current owners of certain brands.

6. Negotiate the total price

Focus on negotiating the vehicle's total purchase price rather than just the monthly payment. A lower monthly payment may simply mean a longer loan term, which can cost more over time.

If you're financing, also compare interest rates from your bank or credit union before visiting the dealership.

7. Don't forget to get the vehicle inspected before you purchase

If you're buying a used vehicle, have it inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing. Spending a little on an inspection could prevent expensive repairs later. A pre-purchase inspection usually costs between about $100 and $250, depending on the vehicle and your location, but it can save you thousands in unexpected repairs. (Some mechanics may give a free inspection if you ask. )

8. Be patient and be willing to walk away

If the deal doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to leave. There are always other vehicles available, and if you are not in a hurry to buy, this will often lead to a better price.

Note: Finding a great deal on a vehicle takes research, patience, and smart decision-making. 

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

July is National Picnic Month - Tips for Drivers

July is National Picnic Month, which means millions of people will pack sandwiches, fruit, potato salad, chips, a cooler full of tasty beverages, and at least one item that mysteriously leaks before they arrive. Some bring everything in the fridge. Others just toss some trailmix in their backpack and fill up a water bottle. No doubt you have your own picnicing style, complete with your favorite foods and your own brand of relaxation.

Whether you're heading to a neighborhood park, a scenic overlook, a river or lake, or a national park, here are a few driving tips to make the day safe and enjoyable.

Pack your vehicle wisely

A cooler sliding around the cargo area may not seem like a big deal—until you make a quick stop and hear ominous noises as everything shifts forward. Secure your coolers, folding chairs, grills, and sports equipment so they don't become dangerous projectiles during sudden braking.

Bring water! Summer weather often includes high temperatures. Make sure that you load up plenty of water to stay hydrated!

Watch for crowded parking areas

Picnic destinations often have busy parking lots filled with excited families, children, bicyclists, dogs, and people carrying their gear for a fun day outdoors.

Drive slowly and be patient. Someone may suddenly step out from between parked vehicles, and children may not always remember to look before running toward a playground.

National parks have special challenges

Many people visit national parks during July, and the roads can be very different from city streets. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, steep grades, and limited shoulders require extra attention. Wildlife may also appear without warning. Never stop in the middle of the road just to take a photo if it creates a hazard for other drivers.

The speed limit isn't there to ruin your vacation. It's there because a 700-pound elk doesn't always check for traffic before crossing the road!

Stay inside your vehicle when required, obey park rules, and never feed wildlife. Animals that become dependent on people often end up creating dangerous situations for everyone.

Prepare your vehicle and tell someone where you are going

Before heading out, check your fuel level, tire pressure, engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Cell service can be limited in many recreation areas, so it's also smart to carry water, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a paper map as a backup to your GPS.

If you're traveling a long distance, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

Have a safe trip, enjoy the fresh air, and share your chips!

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Are You Parking Safely and Smartly?

Finding a parking space can sometimes feel like winning the lottery. After driving around for several minutes, you finally spot an open space. Success! But before you celebrate your amazing parking skills, take a few extra seconds to make sure you're parking safely and legally.

Make sure that you leave your vehicle in a place where it won't create a hazard, receive a parking ticket, or become an easy target for theft or damage.

Choose a safe location

Whenever possible, park in a well-lit area where there are other people and vehicles nearby. Parking under lights or in areas with regular activity can discourage theft and vandalism. If you're parking at night, avoid isolated corners of large parking lots whenever possible.

If you're parking on a street, choose a legal space that gives other drivers plenty of room to see around your vehicle. Never park where your vehicle blocks intersections, driveways, fire hydrants, sidewalks, bike lanes, or crosswalks.

Remember, "I was only going to be there for a minute" is usually not an acceptable excuse for blocking traffic or receiving a parking citation.

Stay inside the parking lines

Parking spaces have painted lines for a reason. They help everyone fit safely and efficiently into the parking lot. Take a few extra seconds to center your vehicle between the lines. Parking over a line can make it difficult for another driver to enter or exit their vehicle. It can also increase the chance of someone accidentally bumping your car with their door.

If you accidentally park crooked, simply back out and try again. Even experienced drivers occasionally need a second attempt.

Watch for parking (or no parking) signs

Before leaving your vehicle, look around for posted parking signs. A parking space that looks perfectly fine may actually have restrictions. Signs may prohibit parking during certain hours, reserve spaces for customers, require permits, limit parking time, designate loading zones, or identify accessible parking spaces.

Ignoring these signs can lead to parking tickets, towing, or both.

Think before you walk away

Make sure you have your key or key fob in your hand, purse, or pocket before exiting your vehicle.

Then, before locking your vehicle, ask yourself a few quick questions:

* Am I completely inside the parking space?
* Is my vehicle legally parked?
* Am I blocking anyone or anything?
* Is this a safe location?
* Have I turned off the engine, locked the doors, and taken my keys?

These simple checks take only a few seconds but can save you time, money, and frustration later.

Parking is part of driving

Many people think the trip ends once the vehicle stops moving. In reality, parking is simply the final step of every drive. A little patience and attention can help prevent tickets, collisions, and unnecessary headaches.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

9 Tips for City Driving

Do you get a bit nervous about driving in the city? "There is so much traffic, with pedestrians, buses, and cyclists, and so many lane changes." "Which lane should I be in?" "Can I turn here?" "Wait, is that a one-way street?" Try not to get overwhelmed. Remember, millions of city dwellers do this safely every day. You can do it! Remaining alert at all times is the key to safe driving in the city.

Here are 9 tips to help you handle the urban chaos with confidence:

1. Look far ahead. Scan 20–30 seconds ahead so you can spot brake lights, traffic signals, pedestrians, and sudden slowdowns early.
   
   
2. Keep a safe following distance. Leave enough space so you have time to react if traffic suddenly stops.
   
   
3. Watch intersections carefully. Approximately half of city crashes happen at intersections. Before entering an intersection, check left, check right, and then check left again—even when you have a green light.
   
   
4. Expect the unexpected. In the city, for example, drivers may:
   
    - Slam on their brakes while looking for parking spots
    - Change lanes without signaling
   
   
5. Check your mirrors often. Use a systematic scanning pattern:
   
    - Look ahead
    - Check your mirrors every 5–8 seconds
    - Visually scan from side to side for hazards
   
   This helps you stay aware of pedestrians, vehicles, bicycles, and motorcycles around you.
   
   
6. Slow down early. Red lights, turns, traffic jams, and pedestrians can appear quickly in city driving.
   
   
7. Avoid aggressive drivers. If someone is speeding, tailgating, or weaving through traffic, let them go. 
   
   
8. Stay out of the blind spots of buses, delivery vans, and large trucks. If you can’t see the drivers in their mirrors, they probably can’t see you.
   
   
9. Stay calm in traffic. Heavy traffic can be frustrating. But patience and focus make city driving safer—and much less stressful. 

Bonus Tip: If you miss a turn, keep driving and reroute safely. Sudden swerves and panic moves are dangerous. 

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

June is National Camping Month - Tips for Drivers

“We have five flashlights and the batteries only work in one!”

“If you think that’s bad, we ran out of mosquito repellant on the first night. We are literally being eaten alive!”

"Oh yah. We are not even there yet. I have no idea where to find my spare tire, or even if there is one!"

June is National Camping Month, and campgrounds across the country are filling up with families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a break from everyday life. Whether you're driving a car, towing a camper, or traveling in an RV, a little preparation can help your trip go smoothly.

Prepare your vehicle

Before heading out, check your tire pressure, engine oil, coolant, battery, and windshield washer fluid. If you vehicle is an RV, or if you are towing a trailer with propane and other onboard systems, be sure to check them before your trip. Make sure that all awnings, slide-outs, and storage compartments are secured before driving.

That old trailer that hasn’t moved in almost a year?

If you're towing a trailer, inspect the hitch, safety chains, electrical connections, and trailer tires. A few minutes of inspection can help prevent hours of roadside frustration. Trailer tires are notorious for aging out before they wear out, so look carefully for cracks or signs of deterioration.

No doubt you have seen trailers alongside the highway in the summer, with some unfortunate person sweating away while swappin in a (dubious) spare tire. Their families stand in the background, wondering when the fun starts. Don’t get in on that adventure! Check your tires and spares before leaving home.

Know your campground

Does your intended campground require a reservation? Also, before arriving, learn what facilities are available. Some campgrounds offer electrical hookups, water, dump stations, showers, and laundry facilities, while others provide only basic campsites. There is roughing it, and then there is really roughing it! Which do you want?

Review campground rules, including quiet hours, campfire restrictions, pet policies, and parking requirements.

Drive with extra caution

Camping trips often involve unfamiliar roads, narrow campground lanes, gravel surfaces, and increased pedestrian traffic.

* Slow down on curves and rough roads.
* Increase your following distance.
* Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, and wildlife.
* Use caution when backing into campsites.
* Allow extra stopping distance when towing.

Pack emergency supplies

Yep. Don’t get caught without flashlights, spare batteries, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Also carry water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, tire-changing equipment, a phone charger, and paper maps or directions. Cell service can be unreliable in remote areas.

Camping should be about enjoying the outdoors, not dealing with preventable problems. A little preparation before you leave can help you arrive safely and spend more time in a hammock and less time muttering about the one thing that you forgot to check.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

First Car - New or Used?

If you are saving for your first vehicle, you may wonder, "Should I plan to buy a new car or a used car?" Parents of soon-to-be drivers may be facing a similar dilema. So how can you think this matter through?

For most first-time buyers, a used car is a wise move but there are a few factors to consider when buying a new car makes more sense. Below are a few reasons to help you decide what to buy.

The reality 

New cars are expensive, with an average cost of around $49,000. New cars lose their value fast—approximately 20% in the first year alone. On the other hand, used cars are typically $20,000 or less. 

Why might a used car could be a better choice for your first vehicle?

A typical used car is less expensive in terms of the upfront cost and the monthly cost. 

Less debt = less stress

You may have lower insurance costs compared to a new car, and there is no need to worry about the first scratch. 

A good rule of thumb is to try to find a vehicle that is 3-5 years old. They are still modern looking and if they were taken care of by the first owner, the car should still be reliable.  

Why might buying a new car might make sense?

Get a new car if you can comfortably afford it (not stretching your budget). One nice perk with new cars is that they often come with a warranty that will cover certain types of maintenance and repairs for several years. Be sure to research this carefully, because there are different types of warranty coverage. It is good to know about warranties and related costs before you actually talk to a new car salesperson. They can be quite persuasive and the pressure to buy could cause you to make a poor decision.

Once in a while, car dealerships will offer low-interest financing or incentives for those purchasing new cars. Depending on the company, they might be willing to offer you complimentary services, for example, free oil changes or car washes, as long as you own the car.

For many, their preference in investing in a new car is to also get the latest safety technology, and perhaps better fuel efficiency. 

Smart first-car strategy

 * Buy used (3–5 years old)
 * Look for reliable brands (Toyota, Honda, KIA, etc.)
 * Once you find a vehicle, make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection
 * Keep your total car costs (payment, gas, insurance) reasonable

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!