Driving on the roads and highways is full of potential dangers. One wrong move and you could easily be a victim of a nasty collision. That’s why it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. This is especially true during heavy traffic and inclement weather conditions. Luckily, you can limit the chances of having to call a tow truck by practicing good driving habits. These six valuable tips will help you drive safely on the road.
Keep your safety belt on.
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe on the road is to buckle up. Always wear your seat belt, even if you’re just driving a short distance on a road trip. Unfortunately, this is a simple routine that many people forget or simply choose to ignore. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts saved nearly 15,000 lives in the United States in 2017. So, make sure you always buckle up before hitting the road. It only takes a few seconds to put it on, and it could save your life in an accident.
Obey posted speed limits.
Speed limits are critical for drivers who want to remain safe on the roads. They’re designed to help keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore posted speed limits, especially when they’re in a hurry. But this is a dangerous practice that can easily lead to accidents. speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding was a factor in 26% of all fatal crashes in the United States in 2019. So, make sure you always obey posted speed limits to help keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Stay focused on the road.
Many avoidable accidents happen on our roads daily because of drivers taking their eyes off the road. It only takes a split second for something to happen, and if you’re not paying attention, you could easily find yourself in a dangerous situation. Distractions such as texting while driving, fiddling with the radio, and even rubbernecking can take your focus off the road and lead to accidents. So, it’s important always to stay alert while you’re driving. This will help you avoid serious injuries and will give you the opportunity to react quickly if something does happen.
Never drive under the influence.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most dangerous things you can do. It impairs your judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. This increases the chances of being involved in a serious accident. In fact, alcohol-impaired driving was a factor in 28% of all fatal crashes in the United States in 2017. So, if you’ve been drinking, make sure you take a cab or have someone else drive you home. Don’t risk your life or the lives of other drivers by getting behind the wheel intoxicated.
Practice defensive driving.
This is a great way to stay safe on the roads. It involves being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards. This allows you to react quickly and avoid accidents. For instance, if you see a car ahead of you swerving in and out of its lane, you can slow down and give yourself some safe distance. Or, if you’re approaching a busy intersection, you can be on the lookout for cars running red lights. By practicing defensive driving, you can help keep yourself safe on the road. Many defensive driving courses are available that can teach you the skills you need to stay safe on the road.
Follow traffic rules and regulations.
Following traffic signs, rules, and regulations is another great way to stay safe on the road. These rules are designed to help keep traffic flowing smoothly and enhance road safety. When everyone follows the same rules, it is easier for all drivers to get where they’re going without incident. So, make sure you always follow the speed limit, yield to pedestrians, use your turn signal, and obey all other traffic laws. This will help you avoid other cars on the road and arrive at your destination safely.
What are the leading causes of accidents?
There are many potential causes of accidents, but some are more common than others. These include:
– Speeding
– Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
– Distracted driving
– Reckless or risky driving
– Running red lights or stop signs
– Failing to yield to pedestrians
-Failing to keep a safe distance
How can I improve my driving skills?
If you want to improve your driving skills, many resources are available. You can sign up for a driving class, or even practice with friends or family members. All of these things can help you become better at driving safely.
What should I do if I get in an accident?
If you’re in an accident, the first thing you should do is check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Once everyone is safe, exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) and take pictures of the damage to both vehicles. Then, you can file a claim with your insurance company and get the repairs process started. You might also want to call a tow truck service if your car is not drivable.
Need a Tow?
If you get involved in an accident and need a tow, Elite Service Recovery & Heavy Duty Towing Recovery & Towing offers 24/hour services. We have a team of experienced tow truck operators who can help you get your car off the road and to a safe location. We also offer emergency roadside assistance, so we can help you if you run out of gas or have a flat tire. Call us today to inquire more about our towing Lake Charles services!
