What are Safety Tips Experienced Drivers Sometimes Forget?

driver-seatbelt-use

Driving may come as second nature to most people which, unfortunately, makes it easy to make simple mistakes while driving. Adults in their 30s and older who have been driving since they were teenagers may not pay as close attention to the rules of the road the way they used to. This is not an excuse to drive recklessly behind the wheel as this can lead to accidents and injuries. The following are safety tips for experienced drivers to follow:

Minimize Distractions

Phones have become a serious source of danger for drivers over the past decade. Drivers are not supposed to look at their phone while actively driving, as well as when they are at stoplights. Drivers still tend to look at their phones and text while driving. A quick look at the phone may mean life or death for someone else on the road. This action is risky and one split second of distraction could cause lasting problems.

Cell phones are not the only type of distraction that people engage in. The radio, music players, food, and children in the backseat can all take one’s attention away from the road. Distractions are everywhere but while driving, limiting distractions will ensure that motorists arrive to their destination safely.

To help minimize distractions, put the phone away while driving or use an application to put the phone on driving mode. There are specific apps designed to keep the phone locked until the driver is safe. If the phone must be checked or engaged in any other activity besides driving, pull over and take care of what is needed to be done. It is easier to hook up to Bluetooth so that motorists are not holding their phone while making the call.

Wear a Seat Belt

This may seem like common knowledge, but this law sometimes gets forgotten. Seat belts save lives and should always be buckled before starting the car. Wearing a seat belt is one of the most effective ways to reduce injury or death if a car accident were to occur. Seat belts should be worn when inside a limousine, bus, or taxi as well. If a seat belt is available, it should be securely buckled.

Avoid Substance Abuse Before Driving

Drugs and alcohol impair driving and reduces one’s ability to think and reason accurately and efficiently. Alcohol decreases reaction time, as well as the ability to make safe choices while driving. Alcohol is not the only drug that impairs driving; marijuana impacts the brain in a similar way, as well as over the counter or prescription drugs. Drugs and alcohol impair decisions, coordination, and distorts perception. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can also cause severe side effects that impair driving. These effects include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Inability to focus or pay attention
  • Nausea
  • Slowed movement

Specific drugs that may cause these effects include:

  • Opioid pain relievers
  • Anxiety medication
  • Anti-seizure drugs
  • Antidepressants
  • Drugs containing codeine
  • Over-the-counter allergy medications
  • Sleeping pills
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Diet pills
  • Stimulants

Do Not Drive Tired

Drowsy driving is dangerous and can cause many different safety concerns while on the road. Being sleep deprived can severely impair driving in the same way that alcohol does. Only drive when well rested and after a good night’s sleep. When a motorist gets behind the while tired, the ability to recognize traffic hazards and other cars is slowed, putting them in danger of a crash. Make sure to get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.

Do Not Speed

Speeding is a very common cause of car accidents and deaths in the United States. Drivers who are in a hurry put the life of themselves and others in danger when they drive above the speed limit. If there is bad weather or construction, speeding can cause an extreme safety issue. Slow down and be courteous to other drivers on the road.

Avoid Assumptions

Never assume that another driver is going to drive safe. Always drive with caution and be alert to what other vehicles are doing. Do not drive close to other cars and never tailgate. This will only make it harder for a motorist to stop or swerve out of the way in an emergency. Other tips include:

  • Respect yellow lights
  • Come to a complete stop at stop signs
  • Adjust for weather
  • Exercise patience and never rush to get to a destination
  • Yield to the right of way
  • Plan the travel route ahead
  • Move out of the way for stopped vehicles
  • Use headlights when needed
  • Share the road with bikers

No matter how long a motorist has been driving for, treat every trip like it is the first. Pay attention to the road and drive as safely as possible. Car accidents are very serious situations that can cause either injury or death to occur. Practice caution while driving to help keep everyone safe on the road.

Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow Advocate on Behalf of Car Accident Victims

If you were injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact one of our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow today for help. We understand how scary and detrimental a car accident can be, both physically and emotionally, and are prepared to handle your case in the most efficient way possible. Call us today at (302) 427-9500 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state, including Middletown, Dover, Milford, Hillsborough, Lewes, Rehoboth, Elsmere, and Seaford.

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