How to Increase Safety in a Convertible

Convertibles are a great way to zip around town with the wind whipping through your hair and the hot sun on your face. Unfortunately, there are some risks involved when you drop the top and drive through town waving to all your friends. Keep the following rules in mind for a fun and safe ride.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Fasten your seat belt. This is a crucial first step in any vehicle, but in a convertible there's nothing to stop you in the unlikely (but possible) event that you should be thrown from the car.
2. Wear protective eyewear. Sunglasses or wind protection glasses will help prevent debris from unexpectedly flying into your eyes. This is especially important for back-seat passengers.
3. Apply a liberal amount of sunscreen. Make a habit of lathering on some sunscreen before you hop in the car. Dab on a layer of lip balm while you're at it. Your skin can be safe and sun-kissed at the same time.
4. Clean out the car and check for any loose items before you go for a drive. Not only is stray stuff a hazard to the convertible's driver, but it's dangerous to other drivers and not great for the environment either.
5. Put your hair in a ponytail or grab a bandana before you hit the road. Wind can seriously damage your hair and loose locks are a major distraction to the driver.
6. Stop the convertible completely before opening or closing the top. This will keep you, your passengers and other drivers safe from distraction. It also ensures that you aren't doing unnecessary damage to the top by moving it up and down while driving.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't drive a convertible during a thunder and lightning storm. Even with the top closed, convertibles can't provide the same protection that a regular car does.
• Stay a safe distance away from trees when parking with the top down. Trees are a breeding ground for unwanted debris on your just-polished leather seats.