Statistics from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggest that up to 96% of auto accidents are preventable. Driver errors are the most common cause of crashes. It’s not always possible to avert danger on the roads, but being a careful, safe driver can lower risks dramatically. In this guide, we’ll outline some simple strategies to avoid accidents.
What are the most common causes of road accidents?
Most collisions on the road are caused by driver errors. The most common mistakes include driving too fast, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drink or drugs and driving tired.
Driving too fast increases the risk of accidents. If you’re speeding when you crash, there’s also a higher risk of severe, life-threatening injuries. Speed restrictions align with the level of risk. If the limit is low, this is usually because the road is narrow or winding, the area is built-up, or there are vulnerable road users within close proximity. Always pay attention to signs and warnings when you drive. If the weather conditions are treacherous, reduce your speed. Driving in winter can be more hazardous due to slippery road surfaces and poor visibility. If you can’t see well due to heavy rain or fog, or the roads are icy, slow down and keep well back from other vehicles.
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of fatal crashes in the US. CDC figures show that nine people die every day due to distracted driving. When you’re behind the wheel, it’s crucial to focus on the road ahead and to be mindful of hazards, which may include other vehicles, pedestrians, changes in the weather or obstacles. You should always be ready to brake or steer your car in a different direction to minimize the risk of a crash if a hazard appears. If you are talking, you’re on the phone, or you’re looking at the infotainment system screen, you might not spot the hazard or have time to react to it. Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel at all times. If you cause a crash because you weren’t looking or concentrating, the victim has the right to speak to a car accident lawyer about claiming compensation. You could also face legal action, which might result in penalties or losing your license. Try to avoid distractions when you’re in the car. Turn your phone onto silent or use an in-car, hands-free system.
Driving under the influence of drugs or drink can elevate the risk of accidents for several reasons. Firstly, when you drink alcohol or take drugs, your reaction times increase. This means that you can’t respond as quickly as usual. Secondly, your judgment may be impaired. You might not make the right decisions in terms of how you drive and use the road. Drinking and driving can also cause changes in behavior. Some people take more risks, which can be incredibly dangerous behind the wheel. You may drive faster than normal or try to overtake when there’s not enough time or space, for example. It is illegal to drive under the influence of drink or drugs. If you cause an accident, or you get pulled over by the police, the consequences could be devastating. NHTSA figures show that 32 people die in the US every day as a result of drunk driving.
We all have days when we feel tired and lethargic. It’s usually possible to get through the day at work or college without too many problems after a disturbed night, but you should never take risks and drive if you’re exhausted. Tiredness affects your reaction time, your reflexes and your ability to stay alert behind the wheel. Take a nap, have a strong coffee or get some fresh air and stretch your legs before you drive. If you’re driving and you feel your eyes dropping, find a safe place to stop. Rest for a while and get out of the car and get some air.
Safe driving strategies
The best way to avoid accidents is to drive safely. Every driver has a responsibility to follow the rules of the road and protect other road users. Here are some examples of strategies to employ.
Check speed restrictions
When you’re driving, you should always be aware of speed restrictions. Signs and warnings are there to keep you and other road users safe. If the driving conditions are dangerous, reduce your speed further.
Give other vehicles plenty of space
Tailgating is a common cause of collisions. If you drive too close to other vehicles, you run the risk of crashing into them if they brake suddenly. You could also increase the risk of a crash by putting the driver in front under pressure. Give other vehicles plenty of space. It’s important to remember that you’ll need to increase your stopping distance if it’s wet or icy.
Take extra care in extreme weather
Extreme weather can put drivers at risk. If it is raining heavily, the roads are icy, there is snow on the roads or visibility is poor due to fog or mist, slow down and make sure you have your lights switched on. Consider using a higher gear when driving in snow.
Avoid alcohol
Drinking alcohol is legal but drinking and driving is not. If you’ve been drinking, you should never drive, even if you feel fine. Avoid alcohol if you’re out or socializing with friends and you need to drive. You can always hire a taxi or use buses or trains to get home if you decide to have a drink.
It isn’t possible to prevent every road accident, but statistics suggest that up to 96% of crashes could be avoided. The best way to steer clear of trouble on the roads is to drive safely and carefully. Abide by the rules of the road, be patient, focus at all times, avoid alcohol and pay attention to speed restrictions. If every driver takes responsibility for their safety and that of other road users, the number of crashes will decrease.