Safety by Lexus

I love being out and about with my family. We usually try to head on an outings about once or twice a week and that usually means we are out driving at least a few hours a week.I worry about safety on the road and especially when I have the kiddos in the car.

Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to learn about driving safely from the folks at Lexus. I spent an afternoon driving in various conditions, which included simulated icy conditions, hard turning, breaking in the sand with and without ABS brakes  and shifting the car into neutral at a high speed. It was quite the experience and I learned so much! While we enjoyed an afternoon driving cars in various road conditions, the kiddos were able to spend the afternoon playing inside the Kidspace Museum. We were able to drive alongside professional drivers, who demonstrated what to do in these various conditions and what Lexus vehicles offer when it comes to safety.

I learned four very important things that I would like to share with you. I think most of you probably know these things, but just in case you  may not, I thought I would share what I learned.

1. We should all drive with our hands on the wheel in the  9 and 3 position. This is the safest position. I know that I always believed that we should drive with 10 and 2, but this is actually not an ideal position because of the driver side airbag.  I think the 9 and 3 position is actually much more comfortable position  for me than 10 to 2.

2. If an emergency were to arise and you need to stop, put the car in neutral. You can do this at any speed!!. I was actually able to put the car in neutral at over 50 miles an hour. Doing this helped reassure me that if an emergency were to arise and my brakes failed , I could disengage my vehicle by throwing it in neutral.

3. Drive with the wheel pointed towards your body/chest area as opposed to your face. This helps give you the most coverage in case of an accident.

4. Do not pump your ABS brakes. The system is pumping the brakes for you and at a much faster pace. This will allow you to be able to concentrate on your steering.

I had a great time and learned so much. I also was able to drive a couple of different models of the Lexus and let me tell you, I want one badly. I love that starting in 2011 Lexus vehicles will be able to shut down with the press of a button and most cars will have Safety Connect which is a built in GPS system that goes where your car goes and is always on. It provides automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Plus what can I tell you, the cars ride like a dream and are sleek looking.