ISU students give checkup to cars and their drivers
Since Sue Tubbs is driving to Twin Falls on Thursday, she thought she should get her car checked because it’s nearly a two-hour drive.
That’s what brought Tubbs to the annual CarFit event at Idaho State University on Monday. At the event, several ISU occupational therapy students provided free car checks.
The students and other technicians at the event also look at a driver’s habits to see how it affects their safety.
Tubbs drives is on the road a lot since her family is spread throughout the region. Her time on the road is starting to affect her.
“Over the years I know I’ve developed some not-so-good driving habits,” she said.
Once a driver pulls in, the students and other technicians evaluate the driver and their car on a 12-point checklist. Some things on the checklist examine how the driver used their seat belt, how their mirrors are positioned, blind spot checks, among others.
“It’s an educational endeavor,” said Ted Peterson, the event coordinator. “The goal is to help senior drivers be more safer and more comfortable on the road.”
Peterson said airbag safety has become one of the biggest priorities of these checkups. Position is key to make sure an air bag will help you, not hurt you.
“You want to make sure the seat is adjusted so that you have at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel,” Peterson said. “That gives the right amount of space for the airbag to work the way it’s supposed to.”
It’s also recommended to have your hands at either the 3-and-9 o’clock position or the 4-and-8 o’clock position. At those spots, you are better positioned for an airbag.
By the time Tubbs rolled out, she learned she saw more of her car than her blindspot in her mirrors. She took the words from CarFit to heart.
“If you’re seeing too much of your own car, your line of vision is not as large as it could be,” she said.
If you missed the CarFit event, Peterson said you can contact him to make an appointment. You can reach him at 208-282-4631.
