Driving resolutions keep drivers safe

By the time this column hits the newsstand it will likely be days or weeks into 2009 and I will probably have already abandoned about half of the automotive resolutions I am about to put forth.

No, actually I am not that pessimistic. Generally I am pretty good at keeping resolutions for about three to four months. Well, this year I am going to make a valiant effort to keep both my list of personal and automotive resolutions going all year long. Seven is my favorite number, so here are seven resolutions that make up my automotive list.

1) In these times of fluctuating fuel prices and escalating environmental concerns, it's important to try conserve fuel wherever possible. I hereby resolve to keep my tires at the proper inflation pressure because underinflated tires cause our cars to work harder and thus consume more fuel. Since tires naturally deflate over time, I will pull out the tire-pressure gauge that sits in my center console, grab the correct pressure inflation number from my owner's manual or driver's side "B" pillar, and keep tabs at least every two weeks.

2) On that note, another way to conserve a little fuel is to keep junk out of the trunk. Lugging around golf clubs and other sporting equipment, books and a plethora of unnecessary items (tools, too) only makes the load heavier and wastes fuel. Keeping a clean trunk and passenger compartment not only saves us at the pump, but keeps our rides looking better and keeps them safer as flying objects within a vehicle can cause serious injury or even death.

3) A couple of times last year I realized that I had not changed my oil within the three-month or 3,000-mile mark (your vehicle might be different). It can be tough with travels and a hectic work schedule. I am sure many of you can relate. Although I did not drive much in 2008 because I spent the majority of the time flying, it is important to change the oil every three months regardless of whether the vehicle is being driven. This year, to safeguard against forgetting, I will make a note on my calendar when it's time to take my baby in.

4) Although I am not a big road-rager, I will make a more concerted effort in 2009 to be an especially considerate driver. I always appreciate when I am in a hurry to get somewhere and another driver lets me squeeze in front of him or lets me proceed in front of her at a stop. The frustrating side of this is when people are not so patient and gracious. I will strive to practice more patience and consideration on the road, which I believe will lead to good road karma. Moreover, I will endeavor to give myself extra drive time, which will lower my blood pressure and help me enjoy the ride.

5) Several months ago I wrote a column about the severe consequences that have resulted from text messaging while driving. It's a serious issue that has cost many lives due to the distraction. In my home state of California, there's a new law against talking on a cell phone while driving. A friend of mine recently got a ticket for this in West Hollywood. For 2009, I vow to not slip up on this. There will be no phone-to-ear contact when I am driving. Period. The phone will only be used when on speaker mode. And if I must send a text message, it will only be while stopped.

6) I am a huge fan of music. It allows me to think and clear my head and it enhances life. When my favorite tunes are on while driving, I'm never angry, no matter the road situation. Well, maybe not all situations, but good music is important. I recently purchased a cool hook up for my Apple iPod and ordered up a bunch of new music to play while driving. So, in 2009, I will be cranking my favorite tunes whenever on the road and make an effort to roll the windows down, enjoy the breeze and sing along, even if I'm way off tune.

7) According to ex-boyfriends, one of my greatest faults is being a major backseat driver. (Of course, they're wrong ... just kidding). Actually, I think it's because I grew up with a father who was a race driver, and those in my family are blessed with good driving genes. I become rather impatient with bad drivers and while I try to make my remarks in a sweet or funny manner, I drive my friends crazy with my backseat remarks. Can I hold my tongue? Ummm, probably not. So, in 2009, I will reduce backseat-driving comments ... by doing all the driving.

Among her numerous accomplishments, Courtney Hansen is the author of her own book entitled "Garage Girl's Guide," the host of Spike TV's "PowerBlock," the former host of TLC's "Overhaulin'" and a writer with Wheelbase Communications. You can e-mail her by logging on to www.wheelbase.ws/mailbag.html.