5 Safe Driving New Year’s Resolutions for 2019

As 2019 dawns, countless Americans will make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, and abolish bad habits. However, one of the areas we all could improve in is our driving. According to the National Safety Council (NSC; www.nsc.org), over 40,000 Americans perished in motor vehicle accidents during 2017 (2018 figures aren’t available at this time).

Additionally, 4.6 million were injured seriously enough to require medical attention, and societal losses from 2017 accidents exceeded $413 billion. With that said, what if we all made New Year’s resolutions to drive more safely next year? If you agree, here are 5 ways to make it happen as 2019 unfolds.

Stop Driving While Distracted

Ask any auto insurance adjuster, and they’ll tell you that distracted driving is a major problem; especially for younger drivers. Here are some ways that you can safely stay focused on the road:  

• Don’t eat and drive. That burger or taco will still taste good later.
• Set aside your cell phone and other electronic devices. That text message from your friend won’t disappear just because you’re driving.
• Turn down the radio. How can you hear emergency vehicles when your radio’s blaring?
• Don’t reach for dropped items. Again, the world won’t end when you drop your cell phone on the floor.
• Secure pets in the back seat. Put Fido in a car carrier, or use a pet gate to keep them in the back. Also, never drive with a pet on your lap!  

Don’t Drive When Impaired

Nearly all of us know someone who was seriously injured in a car accident caused by an impaired driver, usually one under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Prescription opioid and legal marijuana-related vehicle crashes are on the rise, and with all the ride-sharing services available today, like Uber and Lyft, why would anyone risk a wreck when under the influence of these substances?

In addition, another form of impaired driving is being too tired while behind the wheel, like when you’re on a long trip. Stop along the way at a rest area or hotel, grab a few hours of shut-eye, and then hit the road again refreshed and awake!  

Drive More Defensively

Because of the increase in distracted and impaired drivers, it’s doubly important to drive defensively in order to avoid an accident. To do so, use these tips:

• Slow down. Based on road conditions, like snow and ice in winter, or construction zones in summer, adjust your speed accordingly. You should keep a 2-second cushion between you and the car in front of you at-all-times, and double that interval if weather conditions are poor.   
• Anticipate hazards. Always anticipate that other motorists, or pedestrians, will do something careless.
• Utilize vehicle safety features. Newer cars and trucks have built-in safety features like backup cameras, blind spot sensors, and cross traffic alert sensors. Learn how to use yours effectively.

Adjust to Weather Conditions

As was mentioned earlier, the number one rule when driving in poor weather conditions is slow down. In addition, here are some other weather-related precautions you should take to help keep you and your occupants safer.

• Clean off your windows. If your windows are covered by a film in warm months, or snow during winter, you can’t see other vehicles properly. Take a few minutes to clean off all your windows.
• Use headlights. When any form of precipitation is falling, it’s foggy, or the sun’s not out, turn on your headlights so others can see you, and you can see them.
• Fit your vehicle with reliable tires. Make sure that your tires are up to the task by having them inspected by a pro, notably before a long trip. In addition to tire tread, also check the pressure routinely.

Maintain Your Vehicle

You need to make sure that your vehicle is always in safe operating condition, and that means routine inspections and maintenance by a trusted mechanic. Have them check these systems based upon manufacturer-recommended intervals found in your owner’s manual:

• Brakes and brake lights
• Oil and oil filter
• Suspension, steering and alignment
• Wiper blades
• Fluid levels, hoses and belts
• Transmission and transmission fluid
• Radiator, coolant and hoses

When Accidents in 2019 Happen, We’ll Be Ready  

Even when making a resolution to drive more safely in 2019, accidents will happen. If one happens to you, take your vehicle to a reliable collision repair shop within the nationwide Carwise referral network. Technicians there have the equipment, training, and experience to restore your vehicle like-new again promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.