Hi Rachel,
That's a great question!
These days, driving can be a very risky proposition. Just consider the number of vehicles on the road and the amount of people on cell phones. Then, factor in those who are driving while under the influence of prescription medication, alcohol or illegal drugs.
Many of us have been guilty of eating while behind the wheel, putting on make-up, digging in a purse, shaving, changing a CD, or text messaging. Any of the above factors can be a contributing factor to a vehicle collision.
In fact, every time you enter a vehicle, there’s a chance that you’ll be in an accident. Here are some common driving errors that cause most accidents.
1. Driving at excessive speeds.
The old saying “speed kills” is true. It may be tempting when you’re on the open highway to have a lead foot and push the pedal to the metal. However, when investigating a fatality, excessive speed is usually a contributing factor. Many factors control your choice of speed for any given area, such as: environmental factors, the character of the terrain, type and volume of traffic, as well as whether the area is rural or urban. Always check the posted speed limit. My motto is “whatever speed you like to drive at, slow it down by 5 to 10 miles per hour.” Reducing your speed can help to increase your chances of staying alive if you are involved in a collision.
2. Distraction inside the vehicle.
Since you’re taking a road trip with your family make sure the kids have plenty of activities to keep them occupied so that your eyes are on the road, and not on what’s going on in the back seat. Your family’s safety is number one. Part of planning your trip must include a conversation with the kids about the importance of not arguing while you’re behind the wheel. If the kids are unable to access snacks themselves, don’t you do it for them. You need to exit the freeway, pull over to a safe area, turn the motor off, and give them your full attention. Remember to turn the music down. Don’t do anything that will interfere with safe driving; for example, eating, drinking, lighting a cigarette, reading a map, and talking on your cell phone.
3. The Danger of Fatigue.
Never get behind the wheel while fatigued no matter how short the distance. If you start to get sleepy or experience eye fatigue, it’s time to take a break by stopping the car, and identifying a safe location where you can rest until you feel you can safely operate your vehicle. Keeping your eyes straight ahead, in a fixed position, tends to promote drowsiness. Quickly shift your eyes over the entire road while driving. Never drive when your eyes are tired. Drivers are more likely to fall asleep in rural areas than in cities, on straight roads than on curved ones, where traffic is very light, during a warm afternoon on a monotonous road, or after a heavy meal. Don’t fight off drowsiness. A good driver is always alert, and gets enough sleep before starting on a long trip.
4. Tailgating.
People like to drive in packs or groups. Notice this driving behavior when you’re on the open road and avoid driving in the pack and/or driving too close to the vehicle in front of you. If you stay behind the group of vehicles, you’ll be able to observe what’s going on in front of you and react accordingly. If an accident occurs, because you won’t be speeding, you will be able to stop safely.
5. Passing without checking for traffic in the passing lane.
Don’t be a lazy driver when passing a vehicle. You must always turn your head and look over your left shoulder, in addition to looking in your rear view mirror, and using your left turn indicator when passing another vehicle.
6. Driving while under the influence.
Don’t Drink Alcohol or take Drugs and Drive because if you do you will be putting your life, and the lives of others, at risk. Alcohol and drugs impairs your driving skill, slows your reaction time, increases your speed, causes you to take turns faster, following distances become shorter, lane changes are more abrupt, and vision is impaired. If you drink and a police officer determines that you are driving while under the influence of alcohol, even if your blood alcohol level is less than .08 - you will go to jail. My motto is “One drunk driver can kill you and ruin the lives of your loved ones who are left behind.”
7. Caring for Pets on the Road. Invest in a travel container, crate or cage for your pet.
Never allow your pet to sit in your lap while you’re operating a vehicle. Assemble a pet document folder that includes photos of your pet, copies of vaccinations, and medical records, as well as pet insurance. Include a pet first aid kit, with your pet’s current medications with clear written instructions, and your veterinarian’s name and phone number. Don’t forget your pet’s food, water bowl, kitty litter, pans, can openers and spoons. Make sure your pets are micro-chipped and the collar displays your name, address and phone number.
Even the most careful driver can be involved in a serious accident. Preparing for your road trip, in advance will help ensure that you will be ready to respond safely and quickly in the event of a collision. Remember, your goal is always to return home safely. So, buckle up and remember YOU are in the driver’s seat!
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