Car accidents are a threat every time you pull out of your driveway. Often, there is very little you can do to prevent them.
However, there are several risky driving behaviors that you can avoid.
1. Driving tired
According to NHTSA, 633 people died from drowsy driving-related crashes in 2020. Driving while tired impacts your decision-making abilities and reaction time, putting you at risk of falling asleep behind the wheel. Avoid getting on the road if you are too tired to operate a vehicle safely.
2. Distracted driving
In today’s fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere. Anything that takes your mind or eyes off the road ahead can be a distraction, such as texting, eating, fidgeting with the radio or searching for something in the car.
3. Driving under the influence
In the United States, one person dies in a drunk driving crash every 45 minutes, and around 30% of fatal crashes in the U.S. involve drunk drivers. If you have had too much to drink, call a friend or employ a ridesharing service to get you home safely.
4. Speeding or going too slow
Exceeding the speed limit increases the likelihood of involvement in a car crash because it reduces your reaction time. On the other hand, going too slow can also cause car accidents, especially rear-endings, because the people around you may not know you are driving slowly.
While not all automobile accidents are avoidable, you can do your part to prevent some by avoiding these four risky driving behaviors.