As exciting as the open road may be, it’s important to be wary of the hazards that come with it. Staying aware of all the dangers on the road can encourage safe and defensive driving habits, which are critical in a pinch. Keep an eye out for the most common causes of serious car accidents and refrain from dangerous driving habits to promote the safety of yourself and those around you.
Distracted Drivers
Most people associate distracted drivers with phones for a good reason. Phones have become increasingly distracting, with various apps and features offering their own ping or buzz sounds to alert their owners.
Phones aren’t the only things vying for a driver’s attention, either. The radio, food, and passengers can cause a driver to avert their attention off the road and onto their immediate surroundings.
A few good practices to follow before taking off include turning your phone on Do Not Disturb or Airplane mode and adjusting the radio to an appropriate volume. You can also confirm your route before you begin heading to your destination to avoid scrambling for directions while driving.
Reckless Driving Habits
Reckless driving behavior is a top cause of the most common injuries that car accidents cause. Yet, it’s totally preventable. Habits like tailgating, speeding, overzealous lane changing, and other risky road behaviors increase the likelihood of a crash. This is true whether you’re driving in a suburb, city, or rural area.
Violation of Road Rules
Illegal U-turns, passing in no passing lanes and neglecting to heed stop signs are some of the most common causes of serious car accidents thatare entirely avoidable. Drivers should always look out for and abide by local signage.
Overlooking nearby signs can leave you heading down the wrong lane of traffic or into a busy intersection. Remain alert and brush up on your familiarity with traffic signs to avoid collisions.
Poor Weather
Heavy winds and precipitation can make it much more challenging to maintain control over your vehicle. Instances of hydroplaning are also much more common when water gathers on the road. Of course, you can’t control the weather. But you’ll want to avoid driving in bad weather whenever possible.
