10 New Year’s Resolutions to Improve Safe Driving

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety reported that traffic fatalities in Minnesota rose 14% in the year 2015. Although 2016’s numbers aren’t out yet, you can bet that they didn’t go down to zero. Simple changes in the way you drive can make a huge difference - maybe even save a life.

Next to drunk driving, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatalities in traffic crashes.  This year, resolve to make the roads safe for yourself and everyone else around you. We gathered our top 10 safe driving new years resolution ideas in hopes that everyone will make an effort to lower the total number of traffic crashes this year!

1. Never Drink and Drive. Being the leading cause of fatalities, it is most important to always remember this. It may be heard a lot but it surely needs to be said more often. Make a plan, call a cab, or stay home when consuming alcohol.
2. Make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel. Tired driving is distracted driving and isn’t recognized as much as it should be.
3. Leave enough room in front of the car. Especially during the winter months, you never know how long it will take you to stop. Make sure you’re slowing down early enough to avoid any potential collisions.
4. Obey the speed limit. Driving too fast causes drivers to lose control over their vehicles. Being a little late to wherever you are going is not as important as your life.
5. Pay attention to the weather and terrain. Rain, snow, sleet and hail can be dangerous on the roads. Know how to drive in every condition and make sure you have a vehicle that can handle the unpredictable Minnesota weather.
6. Stop at that light. Yellow means slow down, not speed up! The fine for running a red light in Minnesota is $128. Smashing into a car that has the right of way will cost you much more.
7. Focus, focus, focus! Don’t multitask while you are driving - no eating, no applying make-up, and absolutely no cell phone! Your main focus is the road and protecting yourself and the people around you.
8. Give yourself enough time to reach your destination. Start leaving a little earlier for work in the morning so you aren’t rushing on the roads. Allow yourself plenty of time for train delays, accidents, construction or traffic to ensure you are calm and focused behind the wheel.
9. Wear Your seatbelt. According to the CDC, seat belts cut the risk of death in an automobile accident in half. You might not like to wear it, they may be uncomfortable at times, but be sure to ALWAYS buckle your seat belt!
10. Keep Your vehicle safe. Staying up-to-date on your car’s maintenance will not only ensure a longer lasting car but also keep you safe in the process. Check out our service center to get your vehicle scheduled for a maintenance inspection to safeguard your driving this year.

Driving a car is a privilege for all ages. It’s fun and it makes travel more convenient, but it can also be dangerous. Resolve to make your driving habits safer this year. Which resolution will you set for yourself?

The Five Best Vehicles for Winter Driving in Minnesota

Imagine you wake up in the morning and see a fresh 6 inches of snow on the ground. What’s the first thing that goes through your head? Are you thinking about the longer route you’ll need to take to work to avoid sliding down a hill? Are you changing your breakfast plans to accommodate the now longer commute? Are you sending an email to your boss saying you might be a little late this morning? These are all signs that you might need a more Minnesota-friendly vehicle.

Living in Minnesota means drivers need a car that can factor in heavy snowfalls, icy conditions, and treacherous Midwest winters. Don’t let the weather dictate how you travel; conquer the winter with a new ride! Look below for our top five vehicles to take out on the road this winter:

The Dodge Grand Caravan

The Dodge Grand Caravan is consistently ranked at the top of vehicles that drive well in winter. With a low center of gravity, this sturdily-built van will provide you with exceptional control over icy roads. With a spacious interior, the Dodge Caravan is able to fit a large variety of gear ranging from outdoor snow gear, potluck fixings, and Holiday presents.

The Cadillac CTS

This five-passenger sporty sedan ranks high on the list of safety so consistently that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Cadillac CTS a five-star overall crash test rating. This modern and mid-size luxury car has three drive modes and optional all-wheel drive that can better grip unpredictable and icy roads.  

The Ford Fusion

Modern and sharp, the Ford Fusion is a reliable sedan that offers both style and substance.

The newest models of the Ford Fusion offer high-tech options, sophisticated interiors, and ample room to maneuver. The safety features of this vehicle will provide you with peace of mind, including rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and active park assist.

The Chevy Tahoe

For an SUV that has plenty of clearance over snow, consider the Chevy Tahoe. This vehicle is capable of four-wheel drive, excellent fuel efficiency, and superb traction control. Newer models of this vehicle have mastered the ability to maximize fuel efficiency while still providing control and power.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee drives exceptionally well in winter conditions, even over black ice and loosely-packed snow. With newer models boasting eco-diesel engines and eight-speed automatic transmission, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is both fuel-efficient and cost-friendly. This rugged but stylish ride is great for all seasons.

If you are searching for a vehicle this season, consider which factors are most important to you.

Options are abundant, such as four-wheel drive, traction control, antilock brakes, heated steering and heated front seats, rear window defroster and wipers, and stability control. Whichever options you choose, you won’t have to fret over a little snow anymore.  

For assistance in your search for the perfect winter vehicle, visit us at Kuehn Motors.