Female motorists need to know there's more to cars than just driving them
* Published: 16/12/2010 at 12:00 AM
* Newspaper section: Mylife
There are countless things in this wild world that women need to know about - including cars.
Kitivichaya Vajarodaya. Photos by SUCHADA HONGSA
It seems that most female drivers know how to drive but don't know how to do so properly.
As the number of female drivers are on the rise, it is necessary for women to know all the basic tips of safe driving, including car maintenance.
In an effort to raise awareness among female drivers, Ford Thailand organised a seminar for those who want to stay safe on the road, especially at night.
According to Wichit Wongwatthanakan, vice-president of Customer Service Ford Thailand, female drivers have a higher chance of encountering car problems than male drivers, so it is necessary for them to be able to take care of the vehicle on their own.
"Women are not as strong as men so they can't change a car tyre by themselves," he said.
"They also have more life responsibilities so it is impossible for them to take care of the car or learn how to fix it."
Wichit explained that people spend a lot of money on fuel, car maintenance and repairs. But if they knew how to drive properly, they could in fact save money.
There are various golden rules of appropriate driving and they are easy to follow.
Firstly, drivers need to plan their trip in advance.
Secondly, a car must be in perfect condition and ready to use.
Thirdly, driving at a steady speed can help save fuel.
Fourthly, smooth driving is the best skill - more fuel is used if a driver accelerates too quickly.
"A driver loses about 10 baht or more for one touch of accelerator. And you lose about 30% of fuel when you hit the brake," Wichit said.
"So the best way to save energy is to drive smoothly and gently. But most importantly, a driver must choose an energy-saving car. Currently, most cars are designed to consume less fuel."
Apart from fuel costs, most drivers have to pay for registration and insurance so driving carefully can help save costs when it comes to premiums.
"If your driving record is clean, you will receive a discount on insurance premiums in the next year," Wichit said.
Check the air in the tyres and the car’s engine regularly.
"Some drivers claim immediately when there is a minor scratch. Some insurance companies will pay but you will be charged a full premium next year. So it is advisable to think before you claim on the insurance."
More importantly, ignorance when it comes to car maintenance can cost you money.
"Drivers should take good care of their car, don't wait for it to break down. Instead of paying a little, you will have to pay a lot. If you notice anything at all wrong with your car, you should take it to a repair shop immediately," he advised.
While driving, you should maintain alertness at all times. For example, your eyes should look to see if there is something wrong with your car while your ears should listen for strange sounds.
According to Wichit, the choice of cars also plays a vital role when it comes to cost-saving. But it seems some people choose the wrong car and waste their money.
"For city people, small, compact cars are the most suitable choice. But if you always travel upcountry during the weekends, an SUV is an ideal choice. For those who live in the provinces, a pick-up truck is desirable," he said.
Wichit said female drivers can check the condition of their car on their own as it is easy to do.
"They should look under the bonnet every week to see if anything is disconnected or lost. The water should be checked and refilled frequently. The oil also needs to be checked. Change it if there is sediment. Wipers must be functional and check whether the tyres are flat or not," suggested Wichit.
Natprapa Choonhavan
"You also need to check under the car to see if there is water or oil leaking. And before starting the engine in the morning, check for nails or objects around the tyres.
"Walking around the car and checking its tidiness is very easy to do. All these basic things can help save you money and allow you to drive more safely and effectively."
When on the road, drivers can encounter many unexpected experiences so it is necessary for all female drivers to carry a list of emergency numbers with them all the time. Or they can call a friend or family member for help. They can also dial 1133 for listings.
If you have to stop, choose a well lit place or somewhere with a lot of people.
If there is smoke coming out from the bonnet, stay away from the car .
"Don't fix the car by yourself as that can be dangerous. After calling for help, you should lock yourself in the car. All drivers should carry a map. On top of that, you must stay calm," Wichit said.
Flat tyres can also happen but it is easy to tell when that occurs. The steering wheel will be heavier than normal and the car may pull to the left or the right.
"You should park in a safe area and stop the engine. Turn on the emergency lights. Then call for help. Each car should have a jack, a wrench, a towing line, a torch, a triangle emergency sign and a bottle," Wichit suggested.
As for female drivers who have to drive to other provinces alone, Wichit suggested that they should take a full rest before starting their trip.
They must also check the condition of their car thoroughly or send it to the car centre. Tyres and spare parts must be checked carefully. More importantly, female drivers should carry with them pepper spray or electric shock equipment for their own safety.
"If you feel sleepy, you should park your car at a petrol station to wash your face, find some drinks, or get some food before going further. Don't rush if you travel alone," he suggested.
At the end of the seminar, Wichit drove home the message that he wants to see women being good at several things including the use of a car.
"Taking care of a car is no longer difficult for women because of modern technology, so for their own safety, women should pay more attention to their driving," he said.
Here are some basic tips for female drivers
Tips on how to save fuel
- Remove unnecessary items from the car
- Drive at appropriate speeds
- Check air in the tyres regularly
- Use standard fuel
- Take the car for regular services
Tips on how to drive safely
- Don't wear high-heeled shoes while driving
- Don't pile carpets or rubber sheets on the floor
- Always clear the area under the driver's seat; avoid putting shoes, bottles or other things there
- Don't sit too close or too far from the steering wheel
- Avoid hanging a doll in front of the mirror or on the dashboard as it may restrict your view
- Don't keep precious things in the car
- Use a hands-free set up every time while talking on the phone
- Don't put on make-up while driving
- Be careful of any stranger before getting into the car
Tips on how to drive safely during the rainy season
- Check the wipers and tyres
- Avoid accelerating quickly
- Keep more distance between your car and the car in front
- Don't use emergency lights while driving
- Use front lights and fog lamps
- Don't turn off the air-conditioner since it can cause the windows to steam up
http://www.bangkokpost.com/auto/autoscoop/211559/women-behind-the-wheel
