Every year in the United States, more people die due to unintentional road accidents than due to stroke, diabetes, or Alzheimer’s – they are the 4th leading cause of death in the country. Of course, driving a vehicle isn’t without risks, but certain driving practices make it all the more dangerous. Here are five things we all can do to make our roads safer:
Get some shuteye before you drive:
Lack of sleep not only makes you grumpy, it also impairs attention, concentration, and reasoning skills. Sleep deprived people are twice as likely to be involved in a car accident as those who sleep well. A report on Drowsy Driving by the AAA Foundation found that an estimated 21% of fatal crashes were a result of drowsy driving.
Pay attention to the tires:
Debris like pieces of metal, tire fragments, strollers, etc. flying off of cars or trucks can be very dangerous. They cause the driver to lose control and swerve. A recent report found that around 40% of deaths around the country are caused when drivers try and swerve to avoid a crash. Generally, it’s better to run over the object than to swerve. But, to make sure that your car responds, you will have to maintain optimum air pressure in the tires and ensure that the brakes function perfectly.
Focus:
Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents. Driving while listening to loud music, talking loudly, eating, fidgeting with the phone, putting on makeup, changing clothes, etc. can cause your focus to shift away from safe driving.
Pay attention to the little details:
If you’re on a long trip, do not drive for more than 3 hours at a stretch. Clean the windshield to avoid struggling to see through a dirty one. If your feet feel cramped, set the cruise control until the problem’s sorted. All of these factors can make a difference in your driving.
Do not drive while you’re stressed:
Road rage not only causes accidents but is also responsible for health related concerns, including obesity and stroke. You don’t have to prove a point to the driver who cut you off, or the one who’s honking incessantly. Your life’s worth more than an argument.
Looking for more information? Call personal injury lawyer Jarrett Blakeley for a free consultation if you have questions about the law related to safe driving.