How to organize your car and why

It's a new year and that usually means there is a fresh list of resolutions ready to be tackled and possibly broken. While exercise and getting fit often top many such lists, getting organized is another improvement that many strive to accomplish. Being organized can lead to greater productivity, less stress, more time, and improved safety--especially if you straighten up your car's interior. The small cabin space makes this an easy job, and chances are you spend quite a bit of time each day sitting there.

A cluttered car can not only be ugly, uncomfortable, embarrassing, and damage the resale value, it can also be deadly. Loose objects in the car can become flying projectiles if you brake quickly or get into a crash. Further, they can be a dangerous distraction, leading the driver to be concerned about things sliding off the dashboard or seat, rather than focusing on the road.

According to the National Roads and Motorists' Association, if you need to brake suddenly from about 30 mph, large items in the back seat could hit the driver with similar force as falling from a two-story building. Small items can increase their force 20 times its weight in a crash. Plus, loose objects can become lodged under the gas or brake pedal and cause an accident. And don't forget, passengers and pets can become projectiles as well if not properly belted or secured.

Here are some tips to help you get on your way to a clean, safe car.

• Take out what you bring in. If you bring a snack or a can of soda, take it out with you when you leave or keep a trash bag in the car or in the garage to contain the garbage or easily get it out of the car.
• If you don't have a closed trunk, secure large and heavier items in the cargo area. Objects such as laptops, flashlights, or emergency gear are safest when they're tied down or in the trunk as they can become dangerous projectiles or possible distractions if they're moving around.
• Make use of the car's built-in storage compartments. Side pockets and consoles are good for holding bottles, books, or CDs and are easily accessible.
• Buy safe. If you decide to invest in car organizer products, make sure they can be secured safely to the seat or with a seat belt.
• Contain your load. Cargo covers or cargo organizers can help keep items in the trunk and cargo area from rolling around or flying out.

If you have to load up your car for a long trip, pack heavy items at the bottom and towards the front of the cargo space and put softer items on top. If the car stops suddenly, it will be less likely that passengers will be hit by the heavy stuff. If you can, do your own test at slow speeds in the driveway. Once you think you're loaded up, move slowly forward and then hit the brakes quickly and see what shifts or moves. Then fix what looks like it may be a concern.

There are many reasons to keep your car interior clean. If you need motivation, remember it can be a safety concern, as well as a cosmetic one.

—Liza Barth

For more on car safety, see our guide.