5 things you can learn about safe driving from NASCAR

Here in Canada, the preferred sport might be hockey but there are many motorsports fans who enjoy the deafening roar of a NASCAR race.

Even if you're not a fan (and even if you're not convinced that driving around in a circle can be called "a sport"), you can probably still appreciate the power and skill that driving a 750 horsepower race car through traffic-jam-tight spaces.

Here are 5 things you can learn about safe driving from NASCAR

1. Environmental conditions play a role in your ability to control the car. If you listen to commentators and race car drivers before and during the race, you'll hear about how the cars change their handling as the racetrack warms up during the race. It's the same for your car, too. The environment plays a role in how your car handles, so take a moment before you drive to assess what the driving conditions are like.
2. You can't mess with physics. In almost every race, you'll observe as a cocky, inexperienced driver approaches a turn too quickly and (in spite of their best effort) slams into the wall. Even experienced drivers do that from time to time. And so can you. You can think you're in control but the real thing controlling your car is physics and when you combine speed and weight, it becomes difficult to control your vehicle.
3. Pit stops are crucial. You'll often see races where drivers push their cars as long as they can without going into the pits… sometimes it helps but often it hurts them: Their tires don't grip as well and they run out of gas. Your car is a machine with a lot of moving parts and you need to make sure those parts are functioning as efficiently as they can be. Bringing your car into your mechanic for a "pit stop" can help avoid accidents by making sure your car is in peak working condition.
4. Pay attention to those around you. The very best drivers are the ones who know exactly what's going on all 360 degrees around them. When they have that level of awareness, they can take opportunities to pass when they arise or they can avoid accidents that can suddenly happen. When you're driving, pay attention and stay focused and know exactly what goes on around you… for the same reasons!
5. Speed is only part of the equation. In NASCAR, the first person past the checkered flag wins. But strategic racing can earn points for all kinds of other benefits… and sometimes speed isn't the most important factor. Likewise, slowing down while you drive can help you get where you need to go safely.

When you're driving, remember these five NASCAR-inspired lessons to driver safer than you ever have before. And if you do get into a crash, make sure Boyd Autobody & Glass is your "pit stop" to repair your car and get you back into your race quickly and safely.