It's true. You can't run laps down the I-135 at top speeds. But, you can incorporate some racing techniques into your daily commute that will improve your skills. You're sitting in that seat to drive, so why not enjoy it? Thrill behind the wheel with these four tips from pro race car drivers you can use on the road. Avoid Traffic and Storms When you can't drive 65, use an app to steer clear of traffic congestion. Just like on the track, you want to avoid a pile-up. According to Business Insider, Americans spend a shocking 42 hours and $1,400 in gas idly sitting in traffic each year. Try to use alternative routes rather than jumping on the interstate. more Well-equipped Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler brand vehicles are loaded with a trial subscription to SiriusXM Traffic, Traffic Plus, and SiriusXM Travel Link. With SiriusXM Traffic, get real-time information on flow, accidents, construction, and more. Travel Link keeps you in touch with detailed weather information right at your fingertips. Check the Fundamentals Maintaining your car's basic systems will ensure it keeps you zooming down the road. Once a month, give your tires the "penny” test. This is a classic method to ensure your wheels are in good shape. Place a penny head down between your tires' tread. If you can see Lincoln's entire dome, it's time for new rubber. Check your engine oil every other time you hit the pump. It only takes a minute while you're filling up to pull out the dipstick and give it a glance. Is it full? Is it black? These are two things to keep an eye on. If you notice something amiss, get it to your dealership for an oil change. Service departments often include routine maintenance free as part of your purchase. Avoid the Heat According to the private group DMV.org, the maximum speeding ticket in Kansas is $528.00. Ouch. If you're going to put a ton of miles on the highway, it's best to go the speed limit. Rumor has it you won't get a ticket in the 5 to 8-mile-per-hour-over window, but that's ultimately up to the cops. You may earn some brownie points with a firmly attached seat belt. Stay Aware New race car driver Natalie Fenaroli says you need cat-like reflexes and razor-sharp focus to drive professionally. You need those same traits navigating Wichita, so be conscious of what's going on around you. Awareness — knowing where all the other cars are — is critical for safety on the road. Don't merely focus on the cars ahead of you. Look around, and remember that with distance comes comfort. Stay about one or two car lengths away from other vehicles around you. If road conditions are wet, give yourself more distance and, therefore, more time to react. We all enjoy a bit of get-up and go on the road, but the track is a very different place. Try out these four driving tips from professional racers you can use every day on the way. Photo by Dave Hamster | Licensed under cc BY 2.0
