Author: carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Fact Vs. Fiction: Safe Driving & Car Care

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Fact vs. Fiction: Safe Driving & Car Care

January 2, 2025

Whether you hear it from your friends, the internet or your “self-educated” uncle, everyone’s got an opinion about the safest ways to drive and the must-do’s that’ll keep your car in tip-top shape. But there’s no shortage of bad info floating around, and putting your faith in the wrong place can be detrimental — or even dangerous.

From common misconceptions to outdated habits, we’re here to clear the air.

 

Driving Myths That Can Put You at Risk

Staying safe behind the wheel starts with understanding the rules of the road and the ways you can prevent hazards from popping up.

 

The Myth

All-wheel drive makes you unstoppable in the snow.

 

AWD is great for getting you going in tough conditions. But if you lose traction, it doesn’t matter how many wheels are getting power. Slowing down, leaving space and installing winter tires are more effective (and economical) ways to protect yourself when the streets get snowy.

The Myth

You only need to wear a seat belt on long trips.

 

Crashes can — and do — happen anywhere. Even if you’re only headed a few blocks away, buckling up is always the smartest (and safest) choice. Besides, let’s be real — it only takes a couple of seconds to make it click.

The Myth

Hands-free devices eliminate distracted driving.

 

Sure, using hands-free tech is better than driving around scrolling Instagram. But even if your hands are on the wheel, your mind can still be somewhere else. Whenever possible, give yourself plenty of brain space to focus on the road.

The Myth

It’s okay to speed if you’re keeping up with traffic.

 

If the excuse didn’t work with your parents, it’s probably not going to work with the police. “Just because everyone else is doing it” doesn’t make speeding safe or legal. The faster you’re going, the slower your reaction time and the higher your risk for serious injury. Be sure to obey the speed limit — even when it feels like no one else is.

The Myth

It’s illegal to turn your dome light on at night.

 

This one’s a little trickier. No, driving with your interior light on is not illegal — your dad probably just told you it was so you’d leave it alone. This little white lie many people remember hearing is for good reason, though. The light can reflect off of the windshield and affect your eyes’ ability to see in the darkness, reducing overall visibility.

Car Care Truths That Can Keep You on the Road

 

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your ride ready for the road. Not everyone has the know-how, though — and some old habits, rumors and opinions can actually do more harm than good.

The Myth

Premium gasoline is always better for your car.

 

We’ll spare you the specifics here, but the gist is this: Unless your gas cap or owner’s manual specifically calls for premium fuel, regular gas works just fine. A higher-octane gasoline won’t boost performance or fuel efficiency if your car isn’t designed for it.

The Myth

You should let your car warm up for a few minutes in the winter.

 

Modern engines don’t need much of a warm-up. About 30 seconds of driving gently will circulate and warm your oil sufficiently.

The Myth

You can tell when your tires need to be replaced just by looking at them.

 

Even when they’re dangerously worn, your tires might look fine on first inspection. Use the penny test or a tire tread gauge to check your tread depth regularly, just to make sure.

The Myth

You can delay or avoid an oil change by “topping off” your engine.

 

Topping off your oil doesn’t replace old, dirty oil or prevent sludge from building up. Plus, if your car leaks a significant amount of oil, it could be an early indicator of a bigger issue down the road. It’s better to address the root of a problem than to keep patching it up.

The Myth

If your car starts up, your battery is in good shape.

 

A car can start even if your battery is on its last legs. Getting your battery tested regularly, especially before the Midwest winter hits, is the best way to avoid getting stranded at an inconvenient time.

Whether you’re getting prepped for a road trip or looking to stay safe on your daily commute, knowing fact from fiction can make all the difference. The next time someone offers unsolicited advice about your driving habits, take it with a grain of salt — and refer them to this handy guide.

AWD Vs. Winter tires

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

AWD vs. Winter Tires

October 11, 2024

Staying Safe on Snowy Roads: AWD vs. 4WD vs. Winter Tires

 

We all know that winter weather in South Dakota can be unforgiving — turning your morning commute into a scene straight out of a disaster movie. Luckily, automotive technology has allowed proud Midwesterners to stare Mother Nature in the face and rise to her challenge.

“Do your worst,” the Midwesterner says. “My trusty steed delivers power to all of its wheels!”

But are four-wheel and all-wheel drive really helping us stay safe, or is there a better way? When the worst weather and truest test arrives, will we still be the ones laughing?

Great for Going, Not for Stopping

For many snow belt residents, all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are considered the go-to solution for getting around in wet, cold and snowy conditions. And that’s partially accurate — they’re fantastic for getting (and keeping) you going in tough conditions, such as in deep snow or up a slick hill. But there’s a catch: AWD and 4WD do not help you stop or grip the road in icy conditions. After all, if your tires lose traction with the road, it doesn’t matter how many of them are spinning.

Traction When It Counts

Enter winter tires: the real rough-weather warriors and conquerors of slick conditions. Unlike standard tires, winter tires are made with a special rubber compound that stays flexible in frigid temperatures, allowing them to grip the road more effectively. They also have deeper treads with special patterns designed to push snow, slush and water out of the way — leaving less between rubber and road.

Lean Toward Caution, Not Confidence

In any battle, overconfidence can be dangerous — and our struggle against snowy roads is no different. If your vehicle is equipped with AWD or 4WD, it’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling invincible on the roads. Even if you’ve got the right tools for the job, pay careful attention to conditions and adapt your driving style appropriately. Slow down, leave extra space for braking and avoid taking overly sharp turns.

A Worthwhile Investment

There’s no way of getting around one fact that prevents people from embracing winter tires: they’re going to cost you some of your hard-earned cash. However, you can’t put a price on safety, and the right frame of mind can help you justify the expense. Consider the alternative: If you stick with summer or all-season tires year ‘round, you’re at a higher risk for sliding into a curb or getting in a fender bender — both of which are going to be a lot bigger hit to the wallet and headache to deal with.

 

One way to make swapping between summer and winter tires easier and more affordable in the long run is by investing in an extra set of wheels. Having a dedicated set for your winter tires means you can quickly install them when the weather calls for it without the hassle and expense of mounting and unmounting tires. If you’re handy, you can even do it at home. Plus, using two sets of tires seasonally actually helps them last longer. Your summer tires will see less use and avoid exposure to harsh winter conditions, extending their lifespan.

The Bottom Line

AWD and 4WD give you the power to get moving, but winter tires give you the grip you need. The safest solution? Combining both advantages. If the weather’s rough and you absolutely need to get around, putting winter tires on a car that’s also equipped with AWD is the safest way to stay in control.

 

Winter’s coming quickly — and when it comes to our state, Mother Nature doesn’t play nice. Get in touch with your go-to tire shop to get your ride ready.

Road Signs

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Understanding Road Traffic Signs in South Dakota

August 22, 2024

Whether you’re cruising through familiar territory or exploring new paths, knowing your roads signs can make all the difference for a safe trip. We handpicked a handful of signs to help you the next time you hit the road. So, buckle up and let’s dive into the meanings behind the signs that keep us safe.

Back to Basics

These signs are self-explanatory, but a quick refresher never hurts.

Stop Sign

A stop sign means you must come to a stop (yes, a complete stop. We’re looking at you 🫵) and wait until crossing vehicles and pedestrians have passed by.

Yield Sign

A yield sign means you must slow down and yield to other vehicles and pedestrians that have the right of way.

Merge Sign

Merge signs signal that two lanes of traffic will come together. Drivers in merging lanes should yield to traffic in through lanes and enter when safe.

WATCH OUT, DRIVERS

BRIDGE ICES BEFORE ROAD

South Dakota’s unpredictable weather likes to keep us on our toes. And though this sign is all words and no pictures, it can still confuse drivers. Bridges aren’t insulated by the ground like roads are. So, when it’s rainy, foggy or sleeting, water on bridges will turn to ice before it will on the road. If you’re approaching a bridge, know that it could be slippery, even if the road’s not.

THINK!

South Dakota’s THINK signs act as a memorial to the victims of motor vehicle crashes — and as a reminder of the dangers on the road. Wear your seat belt, don’t speed or drive distracted or impaired.

MOUNTAIN GOAT

No, you’re not at the zoo. Crossings for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, deer and other wildlife can appear on the road – and it’s for good reason. Watch for animals on the road, especially at high speeds or when fields, hairpin curves, hills and trees make thick cover for furry friends.

WHAT’S THAT MEAN AGAIN?

LOW CLEARANCE

Low clearance signs show height restrictions for driving under bridges, overpasses, drive-thrus, parking garages and other structures. If you drive a truck or commercial vehicle, always pay attention to low clearance signs so your ride doesn’t suddenly become a convertible (we’re looking at you, Pierre train bridge).

SLOW MOVING VEHICLE

While these signs aren’t posted on the side of the road, it’s good to know what they mean. The slow-moving vehicle triangle is often seen on tractors, horse-drawn buggies and other slow-moving vehicles. When you spot one, approach slowly and proceed with caution.

SOFT SHOULDER

This road sign warns that the ground beside the pavement isn’t as firm as the road itself — think loose gravel or soft dirt. If you need to pull over, do it carefully and avoid driving onto the shoulder, because it might not support your vehicle.

STEEP GRADE

In hilly areas, steep grade signs warn drivers of a steep slope or angle, which is especially important for heavy trucks and other vehicles that need more time to slow down. Approach these areas with caution and slow down in advance to prepare for the steep drop.

DATING PRINCIPLES FOR DRIVERS AND RIDERS

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Dating Principles for Drivers and Riders

August 5, 2024

In relationships, butterflies and honeymoon stages don’t last forever. To keep a relationship going strong, it takes intentionality from both parties. Believe it or not, this also goes for the relationship between cars and motorcycles. To keep drivers and riders safe, it’s key to follow certain guidelines. Here are a few dating principles that apply to sharing the road.

Communication

Any good relationship is built upon a foundation of clear communication. Drivers should practice this by using turn signals to give motorcycles time to adjust their distance and speed.

Because communication is a two-way street, drivers should take time to understand what motorcycles are saying, too. Motorcyclists should always use turn signals, but they also have their own set of hand signals for turning, stopping, and even pointing out road hazards.

Space

Physical touch is not a motorcycle’s love language. No one wants to feel suffocated by a relationship, and this is especially true for a motorcyclist. It’s important for both riders and drivers to give each other plenty of room. Cars take longer to stop than motorcycles, and motorcyclists run the risk of wiping out if they stop too abruptly.  Maintaining a safe following distance and staying in your own lane gives everyone the needed space for a smoother, safer ride.

Being Seen

Being truly seen makes for relationship and road-sharing bliss. Motorcycles are smaller and quicker than other vehicles, which makes them harder to see, especially at night or through the glare of the sun. Drivers should check their blind spots manually before switching lanes and always take a second glance before turning. Riders can do their part by avoiding riding in a vehicle’s blind spot, wearing reflective clothing and keeping their headlights on, even during the day.

Security

Everyone wants to feel secure in a relationship. Obeying traffic laws and practicing defensive driving protects your fellow drivers and riders, creating a more stable, more secure road rapport. For riders, feeling secure and safe means always wearing the right safety gear, including a helmet.

Whether you’re deep in a romance or driving your daily commute, remembering these principles will not only improve your love life but will also protect the lives of those you share the road with.

Child Passenger Safety

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Plan Ahead for Backseat Riders

July 31, 2024

Parents and guardians of young kids forget things – from the diaper bag to their own phone number. That’s normal – parents are running on little sleep, tight schedules and a steady diet of dino chicken nuggets. But no matter if you forget the pacifier or the baby wipes, you never want to forget your child.

 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 970 children have died of heatstroke because they were forgotten or trapped in a hot vehicle. It’s tragic – and it can happen to anyone.

 

It’s never okay to leave your child unattended in the car – even for a short stop. Kids’ body temperatures rise 3-5x faster than adults, and hot car deaths can happen in temperatures as low as 60 degrees.

 

So, what can you do?

Make a Plan Up Front for Backseat Children.

  • Leave a personal item like a shoe, cell phone, purse, wallet or backpack in the backseat. Make sure it’s something you can’t leave without, so you’ll remember to check the back.
  • Set a recurring alarm on your phone to check the backseat in the morning and after work.
  • Ask your daycare to call if your child doesn’t arrive.
  • Keep your child’s shoe in your lap while driving as a visual reminder.
  • Don’t rely solely on vehicle sensors with alerts and alarms. These can create a false sense of confidence, and adults may ignore the alerts over time.
  • Many kids are forgotten when there’s a change in routine, like a parent doing daycare drop-off who typically doesn’t. Our brains tend to go on autopilot with daily habits, so be aware of these changes and use a reminder system.
  • If you notice a child alone in a car, call 911 right away.

 

No one thinks they’ll leave their child in a hot car. But it can happen to anyone. So cut yourself some slack for forgetting blankie – just don’t forget baby.

More Ways to Keep Kids Safe.

In addition to heatstroke, young children face other unique dangers around vehicles. Whether you’re a parent or not, we can all work to prevent child deaths.

Beware of Hypothermia In Cold Cars.

A cold vehicle is just as dangerous as a hot one. Never leave your child unattended, no matter the season or the length of time you’ll be gone. Use the same tips for heatstroke to prevent hypothermia deaths.

Prevent Back-Over & Front-Over Fatalities.

Kids are harder to see around cars, especially SUVs, crossovers and pick-ups with larger blind spots. And it’s not just backovers you need to worry about. Many kids are hurt or killed in “frontover” incidents – when a driver is slowly moving forward but doesn’t see a child right in front of them.

  • Check around your vehicle before you get in, walking fully around the perimeter.
  • Don’t use your phone, and turn your radio off. Roll down the window to listen for kids.
  • Check your mirrors frequently.
  • Slow down and be prepared to stop. Mistakes happen in a hurry.
  • Be aware of neighborhood children who might be riding bikes or playing nearby.
  • Teach your children not to play near cars.

Choose the Right Child Seat.

The right car seat can mean the difference between life or death in a crash. Check our NHTSA’s car seat guidelines to ensure your kiddo is using the right seat for their height, weight and age.

Drunk Driving myths

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Nine Drinking & Driving Myths

April 25, 2024

Summer’s finally here! It’s time for barbecues, pool parties and late nights on the town. But with good times come bad decisions. Especially behind the wheel. We’re debunking some common myths about drinking and driving so you can keep yourself and others safe this season.

Myth #1: I can handle my alcohol.

Everyone processes alcohol differently, and there’s no way to know for sure how much alcohol you can handle. Even a small amount can impair your judgment and reaction time.

Myth #2: Coffee will sober me up.

Coffee can make you feel more alert, but it won’t sober you up. Alcohol is a depressant; it takes time to leave your body. The only way to sober up is to wait.

Myth #3: Rolling down the car window will help me sober up.

No amount of fresh air can beat a breathalyzer. Rolling down a window or turning on the AC isn’t going to help.

Myth #4: I’m only driving a short distance. I’ll be okay.

77.1% of all car crashes occur within ten miles of a driver’s home. Even a short drive can be deadly if you’re driving under the influence.

Myth #5: I’m a good driver, so I’ll be fine.

No matter how good of a driver you think you are, alcohol impairs your ability to drive safely. It blurs vision, weakens coordination and makes it harder to think clearly.

Myth #6: Beer and wine are less powerful than liquor.

The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of a drink is what makes you drunk, not the type of alcohol. Learn more about the ABCs of BAC.

Myth #7: I only had a few drinks.

There’s no safe amount of alcohol to consume before driving. Even a few drinks can ruin your driving abilities. No two people are the same, but typically, four drinks result in a BAC above .08.

Myth #8: It’s okay to drive if you don’t feel drunk.

Just because you don’t feel drunk, doesn’t mean you aren’t drunk in the eyes of the law.

Myth #9: A few drinks help me relax and drive better.

You should never drink and drive. Any amount of alcohol affects reaction time, coordination, vision and judgment quickly after consumption.

Bottom line, there’s no good reason to drink and drive. If you’re going to be drinking, plan for a safe ride home. Have a designated driver, call a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. There’s no excuse for putting yourself and others at risk.

Safety Tips for New Drivers 

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Safety Tips for New Drivers

March 4, 2024

Congratulations! You passed the test, smiled for your photo and now hold that hard-earned driver’s license in your hands. Getting your driver’s license is a rite of passage. It means more freedom, more independence and more responsibility. Before you go solo behind the wheel, here are some tips to help you stay prepared on the road.

Stay Predictable

One of the golden rules for new drivers is to stay predictable. Following the rules of the road not only ensures your safety but also contributes to the overall smooth flow of traffic. When you drive defensively, you can stop the crash before it starts.

 

  • Use Your Blinker: Whether making a turn, merging or changing lanes, always use your turn signal. It communicates your intentions to other drivers and helps promote a safer road for everyone.
  • Wait Your Turn: At four-way stops, left turns into oncoming traffic, navigating roundabouts – whatever it is, patience is key. Waiting your turn avoids confusion and keeps everyone on the same page.
  • Never Drive Distracted: Avoid distractions such as texting, eating or adjusting the radio while driving. Your focus should only be on the road.

Watch Your Speed

The faster you go, the less time you have to react. Following speed limits isn’t only the law of the land — it’s a crucial safety measure. Stay within the posted speed limits to maintain control of your vehicle and respond better to unexpected situations.

Choose Your Passengers Wisely

Teen passengers are often cited as common distractions for new drivers. It’s important to only let people in your car that are going to help you drive, not distract you. Good passengers can help with navigation and answer your phone, allowing you to keep your focus on the road.

 

DRIVE SAFE TO WIN BIG

Not only is smart driving the safest thing to do, it’s also the easiest way to win big. From March 18th through April 30th, South Dakota teens can take a two-minute quiz for a chance to score $10,000 for themselves and $10,000 for their school. Last year, over 4,000 students pledged to be a safe driver for the chance to win. Will you do the same?

Enter Now

winter driving tips & tricks

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Winter Driving Tips & Tricks

November 30, 2023

As we enter the coldest month of the year, it’s a good reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination. When you’ve got someplace to be, you have every reason to get there safely. That’s why we’ve come up with five winter driving tips to help you hit the road.

Checkoff Your Checklist

Preparation is key to a successful winter trip. Take the time to ensure your vehicle is ready to face South Dakota’s winter roads. Test your car’s battery, measure your tire pressure, test those brakes, check your fluids, fill up with gas and make sure your headlights work. It’s like giving your car a warm-up stretch before kickoff.

Stay Informed

It shouldn’t be a surprise that South Dakota weather is erratic. Stay up to date on the weather by keeping an eye on the forecast and current road conditions. Things can change quickly, so check the weather often. And when no travel is advised or roads are closed, listen. It’s also smart to share your itinerary with someone else, so they know when to expect you and can send help if needed.

Clear the Snow and Ice

Before hitting the road, take the time to clear snow and ice from your vehicle. This includes your headlights, taillights and the roof. Snow and ice flying off your car can be hazardous to you and other drivers. And don’t be afraid to pack a small shovel along with your ice scraper — you might just need it down the road.

Brake with Caution

Be gentle on the brakes. Abrupt or sudden braking can lead to sliding on icy roads. If your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, apply steady pressure and let the system do its thing. If not, pump the brakes gently to prevent a lockup.

Don’t Crowd the Plow

Whether you’re driving in town or on the highway, make sure you give the plows some space. Snowplows play a crucial role in keeping roads clear, but they need space to do their job. Stay a safe distance behind snowplows, and never try to pass them. The road conditions in front of a plow are likely worse than those behind it.

Distracted Driving Phone Wallpapers

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

Distracted Driving Phone Wallpapers

October 11, 2023

If you’re like most people, your cell phone is always within arm’s reach. But that should never be the case behind the wheel. Distracted driving is dangerous. And now, your phone can remind you of that every time you’re tempted to pick up.

Download these DriveSafeSD approved phone wallpapers, here to make you think twice about using your phone behind the wheel.

Download Wallpaper

Download Wallpaper

Download Wallpaper

Download Wallpaper

How to Deal with Hitting a Deer

Posted on by carly.hegstad@l-s.com

How to Deal with Hitting a Deer

September 8, 2023

Fall is here. The old flannel in your closet is calling your name, and the pumpkin spice lattes are a-flowing. But more importantly, deer are on the move. Because hunting and mating seasons collide, many deer find their way onto highways, into quiet neighborhoods and, sometimes, right in front of your car. It doesn’t help that South Dakotans have one of the highest risks of hitting an animal while driving. Here’s what to do if man and nature collide.

BEFORE

Drive with Deer in Mind

They’re often most active at dawn and dusk.

 

WATCH FOR DEER CROSSING SIGNS

Signs are placed in areas with high activity.

Slowly Approach Hills and Turns

You can’t avoid what you can’t see.

 

Turn on Those Lights

You’ll have better visibility, and your headlights might frighten or help deter deer.

Scan Your Surroundings

It’s not enough to only look at the road. Make sure you’re scanning the sides of roads and ditches.

DURING

Brake and Honk Your Horn

If you have time to react, this may scare the deer out of the road.

Don’t Swerve

It might seem counter intuitive, but turning quickly could cause more damage than hitting the deer. Quickly swerving may cause you to hit oncoming traffic in the other lane or cause your vehicle to roll. Don’t turn a bad situation worse.

AFTER

So, you hit a deer. Don’t worry, it can happen to any driver. These instructions will help you navigate the aftermath.

Step 1

As soon as it’s safe, pull your car to the side of the road away from traffic.

 

Step 2

Call emergency services in case of injury, to remove the deer and file a report.

 

Step 3

Leave the deer alone. It could be dangerous to approach if it’s still alive.

Step 4

Document the incident. Take photographs if it’s safe to do so.

 

Step 5

Don’t assume your vehicle is okay to drive. Look for loose parts, flat tires etc.

Remember the best way to deal with deer is to prepare in advance. Taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of colliding with deer while driving.