Speeding is one of the leading causes of car accidents. When you drive over the speed limit, you have less time to react to hazards and more time to lose control of your vehicle.
2. Buckle up
Wearing a seatbelt is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a car accident. Seatbelts reduce the risk of death in a car accident by 45% and the risk of serious injury by 50%.
3. Don't drink and drive
Drunk driving is another leading cause of car accidents. When you drink and drive, you impair your judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Even a small amount of alcohol can impair your driving ability.
4. Don't drive distracted
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving, such as talking on the phone, texting, eating, or drinking. Distracted driving is dangerous because it increases your risk of being involved in a car accident.
5. Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to the road, other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Be especially aware of hazards such as intersections, merging lanes, and school zones.
6. Drive defensively
Drive as if everyone else on the road is a bad driver. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to react to sudden changes.
7. Maintain your vehicle
Keep your tires properly inflated, your brakes in good working order, and your windshield clean. Make sure your lights work and your turn signals are working properly.
8. Know the rules of the road
Obey all traffic laws and signs. Learn what the different hand signals mean, and respect the rights of other drivers.
9. Take a defensive driving course
A defensive driving course can teach you how to drive more safely. These courses cover a variety of topics, such as:
Avoiding accidents
How to deal with difficult driving conditions
Emergency driving techniques
10. Practice safe driving every day
The best way to drive safer is to practice safe driving habits every day. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident.
