In Utah, thousands of people get injured or even die due to car accidents. National statistics show that a car crash occurs every five seconds on average. Safety must always be a priority among drivers. Driving a car gives you the responsibility to keep roads safe for anyone, be it a driver or a pedestrian.
One way to prevent yourself from getting injured from car accidents is by learning some road safety tips. Even if you’re already a good driver, it’s ideal to refresh your memory every once in a while on the basic traffic rules and safety so you can help keep the road safe for everyone.
Stay Alert
Be active in paying attention to your surroundings. While driving, do your best not to be distracted. Remember, your eyes should be on the road. Put phones away and avoid sending text messages while driving. For circumstances that you need to use your phone, pull over first.
Buckle-Up
Wearing your seatbelt is a matter of life and death when driving. There have been so many studies that concluded that seatbelts save lives when worn correctly. Studies have shown that getting killed in a car reduces your chances between 40 to 50 percent for drivers. It also reduces the chances of injuries. But in cases of severe auto accidents, it’s best to consult with an attorney.
Respect Traffic Lights
Pay attention to the traffic lights and obey them as they go. When you see the yellow light, remember to slow down and prepare to stop. This should not be viewed as a signal to speed up before the red light comes up. Think twice before you think about beating the red light. This unsafe practice may cost you your safety.
Be Patient
In an October 2019 road rage statistics, data shows that about 82% of American drivers have admitted to having road rage or driving aggressively. Many accidents happen because of impatient drivers or drivers who get road rage. Consider your safety than letting your emotions take the better of you. When you feel like you’re losing your patience, take a deep breath and do activities that help you relax, such as listening to music or even yell.
Don’t Drive Under Any Influence
If you’re planning to drive while you’re intoxicated, don’t. It’s important to know that alcohol will slow down your responses and affect your body. This will not only affect you but as well as your passengers.
When you’re under the influence of alcohol or other substances, your brain takes longer to process information, and you may even experience blurry vision, and delayed reactions. In the United States, if you’re found violating the drunk-driving limit, you’ll have to pay costly fines as well as other punishments like license suspension and vehicle impoundment.
While it’s good to have some fun, when you feel like you’re already intoxicated, have someone sober drive for you, or take a cab. Almost 30 people die every day in the United States because of drunk driving. Driving a car while drunk can not only be dangerous for you but as well as your passengers and fellow motorists.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to cruise through roads responsibly and safely.
