McHenry drivers know that their brakes don't fail often. But, when they do, a critical braking failure can cause serious problems. It's a good idea to have your brakes checked periodically.

You’re driving south on Green Street and, just as you come up to Green Street Café, a car pulls out and turns left in front of you. Will you have time to stop?

You’re headed east on 120 and, at the last second, without using their turn signal, the person driving the car in front of you decides it’s time for a fastfood sandwich. Can you brake in time?

Worse yet, you’re driving down any one of the many side streets in McHenry when a kid chasing a ball runs into the street in front of you. Can you stop in time?

In any of those questions, finance and treasure hang in the balance. Even life and emotional welfare are at stake. And there are a couple critical factors that may decide the outcome.

Attentive Driving

If you don’t notice the car pulling out of the parking lot, the suddenly braking vehicle in front of you, or the child running into your path, there’s no reason to assume you’ll stop in time.

Attentive driving is the first line of defense for safe drivers. Watching what’s going on around you while you drive is critical to avoiding accidents. It’s not just that you’re aware of your surroundings; it’s also that you’re anticipating problems.

As you approach the entrance to a parking lot that is set back behind a building or visual obstruction, prepare for the possibility that a car will fly out in front of you. Know that some drivers make rash decisions and don’t always signal their intentions. And, if you see children playing catch anywhere near the street, don’t assume they’ll stop to check for traffic.

Optimal Mechanical Condition for Braking

Even if you’re paying attention, if your brakes aren’t in good condition, your ability to avoid accidents is reduced. The odds against you are growing.

Having your brakes checked from time to time will help to ensure that, when you need them, your brakes will provide all the stopping power possible. 

You also want good tires that will grab the road

In McHenry, as with anywhere else, there are good drivers and not-so-good drivers. There are children who are careful around the roads and some children who just don’t consider the dangers posed by passing traffic. Do everything you can to give yourself and your vehicle an edge in those critical situations.