Innovation, Value and Practicality: Five Gadgets for Safer Driving

With today's busy, on-the-go lifestyles, many individuals rush from place to place, driving at top speeds and giving little thought to safety. Whether you're shuttling children to ballet lessons or picking up the evening meal, getting there faster often takes priority over arriving in one piece. Fortunately, technology has made driving safely easier than ever before. The following five gadgets offer modern drivers incredible value, practical application, and life-saving features that push the boundaries of technological innovation.

1. Hands-free Driving Kit

In the United Kingdom, it is illegal to use a mobile phone whilst driving or riding a motorcycle. Violating the law can result in heavy economic penalties or even the loss of your license. Despite the law, many people are tempted to use their phones in the car. Family emergencies pop up and work obligations come calling. A hands-free driving kit allows drivers to stay in touch whilst staying safe behind the wheel. There are various models with different features depending on your individual needs. According to John Leyden of The Telegraph, however, many drivers unintentionally purchase unsafe hands-free kits. The best hands-free kits feature in-car installation rather than equipment that fits over the driver's ears. These in-car devices allow you to stay aware of your surroundings, including other vehicles, as you operate your car.

2. Personal Breathalyser

In some countries, such as France, the law requires drivers to keep a personal breathalyser in their vehicles at all times. Although the United Kingdom does not maintain such a law, personal breathalyser kits are nevertheless a top safety device for all drivers. Under UK law, drivers are considered over the legal limit if they have more than 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood in their system. In many cases, individuals don't realise they are impaired until it is too late. Breathalyser kits allow drivers to make smart choices about whether it is safe to drive after consuming alcohol. By keeping a kit in the car, you can stay within the legal limits and stop yourself from driving straight into a serious accident.

3. Tyre Pressure Gauge

The solicitors at Irwin Mitchell have helped countless individuals recover damages in personal injury cases that stem from serious car accidents. Many of these unfortunate events could have easily been avoided if the driver had maintained proper tyre pressure. As simple as it sounds, many drivers fail to inspect their tyres. As the weather changes and temperatures grow colder, tyres undergo physical wear and tear. Over time, they lose tread and traction. Without regular inspections and maintenance, drivers put themselves and others at risk every time they get behind the wheel. A tyre pressure gauge is an inexpensive product that can make a big difference on the road.

4. Jump Start Kit

No one plans for their vehicle to break down. Unfortunately, cars tend to malfunction right when you need them the most. In other situations, human error and carelessness causes vehicles to experience difficulties. Something as innocuous as leaving your lights on too long can cause your battery to go dead. Keeping a jump start kit in your vehicle provides peace of mind and the means to get moving again should something happen to your battery.

5. First Aid Kit and Fire Extinguisher

Whether you experience a vehicular emergency or you need to come to the rescue of a fellow driver, it's a good idea to keep certain emergency essentials in your vehicle at all times. A first aid kit can help you treat minor to moderate injuries should you suffer them when you're away from home. Avid campers, hikers, and motorists can all benefit from the security of a well-stocked first aid kit. Additionally, it's a good idea to carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle. If you experience a car fire on the open road, it might take an emergency crew a long time to reach you. When your vehicle is in flames, you don't have an hour to wait for help. A fire extinguisher can help diffuse the situation whilst you wait for expert assistance.

Driving can be a great source of freedom. Many drivers love the feel of the open road. Although they are a source of great personal autonomy, cars also have the potential to cause serious injury. By incorporating the foregoing five safe driving essentials in your daily drive, you can ensure your ride is safer and more enjoyable.

Lewis Wild lives on the road. He often blogs about his experiences and insights to help fellow travellers stay safe and enjoy their journeys.