When it comes to driving, safety should be the number one concern for everybody on the road. According to the safe driving website asirt.org, 1.3 million people around the world die annually from car accidents. To avoid vehicle accidents, here are 10 tips to ensure safe driving.
- Put away any phones or electronic devices.
You may have heard of the “Don’t Text and Drive” campaign, an effort to inform the public about the dangers of texting while driving. People are 23 times more likely to have a car crash if they are texting at the wheel. The use of cell phones has caused similar problems. Any electronic device that could cause a distraction should be ignored while traveling.
- Don’t drive while under the influence.
According to CDC.gov, 28 people die every day in the United States from crashes that involves drunk driving. Alcohol causes plenty of impairments that intervenes with your ability to drive safely. Drinking alcohol impairs judgment, reduces coordination, causes blurred vision, and lowers inhibition so that a driver is more prone to making risky decisions and mistakes. Similarly, do not drive if you are under the influence of other drugs or heavy medications.
Even if you only have one drink, it is best to avoid the road. Instead, ask a sober friend or contact a driving service for a ride home. Driving while intoxicated isn’t worth the risk.
- Don’t drive while feeling sleepy.
Be sure to get plenty of sleep before driving. Drowsiness or fatigue do factor into how well you perform on the road. A lack of sleep can lead to clumsiness, lowered concentration, and even incidences of falling asleep behind the wheel.
- Follow the rules of the road.
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These rules were made specifically to ensure safe driving. Speeding on the road is not a good idea. If you are running late, remember that the risk of speeding isn’t worth a potential car crash. Make sure you are following all the signs on the road. You don’t want to inadvertently break the law because you weren’t paying attention to the signs.
- Pay attention to other drivers.
Even if you are the safest driver out there, you could still end up in an accident because of other people on the road. In order to really avoid a collision, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the other cars around you. Look out for lane changes, turns, swerves, sudden stops and tailgating.
- Avoid poor behavior.
Tailgating is a dangerous behavior that can easily lead to a collision. Always give other cars plenty of room to move around and switch lanes.
- Wear a seat belt.
The importance of seat belts cannot be stressed enough. When car crashes do strike, a seat belt can be the difference between life and death. A seat belt will always increase your chances of survival.
- Be cautious during bad weather.
Driving during poor weather conditions is especially difficult. Snow, rain, or fog can interfere with your ability to see the road or cause a slippery road to drive on. Drive slower during bad weather, and give extra room to others on the road.
- Don’t be an aggressive driver.
Always be the defensive driver. Practice caution, calmness, and awareness at all times. Don’t initiate conflict with other drivers on the road.
- Make sure your car is in good condition.
Poor tire pressure can cause a blowout while driving. You definitely need to pay attention to car brakes. A well-maintained car is a safe car.