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Tips for Relaxed Driving |
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Car comfort and health wasn't such an issue in the days
of yore since near- vertical bench seats mounted high- which is why the stately
Ambassador is still up there in the comfort stakes-took sensible care of many a
sensitive back and neck while two-wheelers merely constituted status symbols.
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Earlier, they weren't that many automobiles on the road
and they weren't too reliable either. And we used other modes of transport. But
now times have changed and most of us have learnt to enjoy (and even abuse!)
the pleasures of driving. So how do you cut down on trips to the family
physician when all you do with your vehicle is take your lovely lady or gentle
gent for a spin? Surely, it takes more than an apple a day.
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What you need to do to protect your neck first. Get hold
of a tape measure and try to see how far off the ground is the main part of the
seat where your backside will rest. If it is a two-wheeler, try mounting,
staying on top, and dismounting a dozen times or so. If it is a car, get hold
of some seats that are exactly that height. Place them at home and watch
television for an hour or so.
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In both cases, if you end up stretching your neck, your
back will soon be in trouble. Regardless of your height, go back to a vehicle
where the sitting position leaves your neck comfortable.
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That means you may not be able to go for the sleek
high-speed wonders being sold across our Indian sub-continent these days. It
isn't just about ease of entry and egress but also about how comfortably you
can see the long, winding road and its inhabitants unwind in front of you.
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The next most important thing is to see how comfortable
are your arms on the steering wheel - they should be just slightly bent while
holding them out straight in front of you.
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If your two-wheeler has adjustable handlebars or a till-wheel, so much the
better. Work your wrists around the position to see if there is any unusual
strain. If your endows are bent a little too much then you are asking for
trouble. Likewise with the foot-pedals - a useful add-on would be a footrest
for the left foot.
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Varying the way you press on the accelerator - at times with the toe, at times
with the side of the foot, sometimes with the side of the foot and at some more
times with the full foot should prove helpful.
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Whatever you do, do not neglect your back. What do you
do when that irritating pain starts in your back? Invest in a small - sized
pillow and prop it up behind the small of your back. If you find yourself
pointing your head upwards to gain height and your eyes looking down to see the
road, then you are in trouble.
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One of the most useful tools to avoid from medical bills is seat belts. They
keep you safe and secure in event of an accident. Besides, they push you back
into the seat and always in a comfortable position. And mainly, they help you
'roll' with the car while turning steeply instead of fighting the motion.
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Sad but true, nothing can fight the fickle finger of
fate. If an accident or mishap is destined then nothing can avert the
inevitable. And it is your duty and right to protect yourself as far as
possible or at least minimise any damage or injury to yourself and your
family.
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