You are a safe driver. Whenever you are on the road, you keep your attention and focus on what is around you. Your safety, as well as that of your passengers and fellow drivers, is your top priority.

However, such conscientiousness must begin even before you pull out of your driveway. You should always carry out a safety check before driving. Cars are only machines, and machines fail all the time—often without warning. The mechanical failure of your vehicle can lead to an accident, and you want to do all that you can to avoid such a thing from happening.

Here are 4 things you should always check on your car before driving:

1. Mirrors

Your side and rear view mirrors help you see what is behind and just to the side of you. Do not assume that they are in the position you left them. Even if you are the only one who drives your car, you should always verify that your mirrors are in the right position before you set out on your journey. The road is the last place you want to be when you discover that your side or rear view mirror has been moved.

2. Brakes

Brakes can cease working owing to lack of fluid or because of a catastrophic mechanical failure. The latter can be the result of a defect in the braking system. You should always check to ensure that your brakes work before you leave your home.

3. Tire pressure

Low tire pressure puts you and other drivers in danger. It can lead to a flat tire, which is an inconvenience. Even worse, it can lead to a blowout. If such a thing occurs while you are on the highway, then it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and crash into another. Indeed, such a sudden event can have a cascade effect that puts a great many of your fellow drivers in danger. Always check your tire pressure before driving. If it is low, you should drive immediately to a place in which you can re-inflate them.

4. Lights

You should check that all of your lights work. The easiest way to do that is to turn them on and get out of your car to confirm that they are still working. Driving around in the dark with no lights makes your car a hazard. Other motorists and pedestrians will not be able to see you, and you will increase your chances of causing an accident.