WARRENVILLE, Ill. (April 17, 2002) - Pickup trucks are the best selling vehicles in America, and SUVs are gaining popularity, according to J.D. Power and Associates, largely due to their high safety ratings. But the same thing that makes these larger vehicles safe for passengers - their size - also makes pickups and SUVs different to maneuver than smaller cars, meaning safe driving habits are more important now than ever.

International Truck and Engine Corporation, manufacturer of the Power Stroke(r) Diesel engine for Ford Motor Company, is teaming up with Top-10 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Terry Cook to promote safe driving tips for pickups and SUVs. Cook is an expert behind the wheel of bigger vehicles - he not only drives the No. 29 Power Stroke Diesel Ford race truck on track, but he travels around town in his own diesel Ford Excursion. Cook compares highway driving to NASCAR competition to provide the following tips for safe driving habits and maximizing fun behind the wheel.

Clear Comfort - The first rule of safe driving is to make sure you're comfortable and can see clearly. "Good posture will improve your alertness," Cook says. "We spend up to four days adjusting everything on the No. 29 Power Stroke Diesel Ford to help keep me from getting tired on long 200-lap races. Whether you're heading to the grocery store or a long road trip, the first thing you should do is make sure you're sitting in a good driving position."

Adjust your seat so that your wrists rest on top of the steering wheel and your elbows and legs are slightly bent, even when extending your arms in a turn or your legs to depress the accelerator. Leave a few inches between your knees and the dash or steering column for both comfort and safety.

Mirror, Mirror - Make sure mirrors are positioned for maximum visibility to both sides and to the rear of your vehicle. "The typical blind spot is usually over your left shoulder at the left rear wheel, and that's why it's important to check not only in your mirrors for clearance, but also look over your shoulders when backing up or changing lanes," says Cook.