Car accidents are increasing in number, and the number of fatalities is increasing as well. In order to help prevent potentially disastrous car accidents, there are a few tips all drivers should take to heart.
-
Avoid Drinking and Driving
Many people drink and drive because they think they haven’t had enough alcohol to make them drunk, or they just think they won’t get caught. It is important to refrain from drinking any alcohol if you are going to drive. Even one drink could impair your judgment. It’s too dangerous to drink and drive, even if you drink just a little.
-
Avoid Texting
Driving while texting is very dangerous. Texting takes up a lot of your concentration, and it is a major distraction. For example, if you text, you might not be aware of a car braking in front of you.
-
Keep Your Car in Top Shape
Old or damaged tires could blow and cause an accident. Problems with the engine, battery, or even water pump can cause the car to stop running suddenly and cause an accident as well. Take your car in for repairs and have it serviced properly to avoid accidents.
-
Remember Blind Spots
Always make sure to align your mirrors properly so you can see everything well. Most importantly, don’t just assume the mirrors will show you everything; take a look at the lanes beside you to makes sure you aren’t missing something. You don’t want to merge into a car.
-
Don’t Drive While Tired
Driving when you are exhausted can be dangerous. You could fall asleep at the wheel and get seriously hurt. When you are very tired, your reflexes and reaction time are slowed, and you have a higher chance of getting into an accident. Try to avoid driving while very tired.
-
Get GPS
Reading a map while driving is just as distracting as texting. Avoid studying maps while driving. Instead, purchase a GPS or have someone in the car with you to help you navigate and get you safely to your destination.
-
Turn the Music Down
Music that is too loud can be distracting. Make sure your music is at an appropriate level so that you don’t pay more attention to it instead of the road. Keep the music down to stay safe.
-
Stay Calm in Bad Weather
Don’t let weather conditions you are unfamiliar with frighten you. If you aren’t used to heavy snow, drive slowly and carefully, and don’t panic. Panicking is a common cause of car accidents.
-
Don’t Eat and Drive
It’s never a good idea to multitask while driving. Eating requires a large amount of your attention. People who eat sometimes even drive with their knee momentarily to get some foods opened. This is all too dangerous and can lead to an accident. Only eat if you aren’t driving.
-
Pay Attention
Don’t let your mind wander. Daydreaming or staring into nothingness is a fast way to ram into another car or worse. Keep your eyes on the road and your mind on the task at hand.
Many accidents can easily be avoided by refraining from multitasking and losing concentration. Not drinking alcohol and avoiding driving when exhausted also can stop accidents from happening. Driving responsibly can save lives.
