When you are on the road, being aware of your surroundings is always important. There are many driving safety hazards that are not commonly thought about but can have devastating consequences. In this article, we will discuss top common hazards and how to avoid them.
What are driving hazards?
Car accidents are dangerous and can be costly to both your vehicle and your wallet. Driving safety hazards are always in the news, but they often get overlooked when people think about how to stay safe on the road. Driving hazards are things that you regularly encounter on the road, but should always be cognizant of.
Why do driving safety hazards matter?
How many driving hazard types are there?
There are several different kinds including:
- Distracted driving. This includes using cell phones/smartphones, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, etc.
- Bad weather. This includes foggy or rainy conditions in which visibility is decreased and can result in poor decision making leading to accidents.
- Animal crossings. These include driveways/alleys where animals may run out onto roads. Unexpectedly causing drivers to swerve suddenly without time to react properly.
- Construction sites. Construction work zones are extremely dangerous. Because of limited space for vehicles along with slow moving vehicles that don’t accommodate many cars at once on their routes. Drivers tend not be aware of construction workers’ presence as well which only increases the risk factors associated with this hazard type when near them while operating a vehicle.
Accidents caused by distractions account for 25% of all fatal crashes in the United States.
Which driving safety hazards cause the most accidents?
Distracted driving and bad weather are often what result in a majority of accidents that occur on roads. Because they both contribute to impaired decision making by drivers leading them into dangerous situations that can be deadly if not handled properly. The other types all have their own risks associated with them. But none as significant as distracted driving or having poor visibility due to inclement weather conditions. Which make it easier for drivers to lose control of vehicles resulting in an accident occurring.
How do you avoid these common incidents when operating a vehicle?
How bad is using a phone while driving?
39 percent Americans admit that they check their phones at least once every few minutes during certain drives according to DistractionData survey report . Texting remains one of the most common causes for car accidents. Because it requires drivers’ eyes off the road and hands away from steering wheel for more than five seconds. It can take your brain up to five seconds or longer to refocus on the road after you take your eyes off of it.
Do not text and drive!
If talking is still allowed, do not use speakerphone while driving because this activity further distracts drivers from focusing on what’s ahead. The risk associated with using a phone grows even greater if you are trying to send emails or operate social media platforms. Remember that drinking can impair judgement up to 30%. Which means dialing numbers, typing texts messages also requires attention.
What other risks should I be aware?
Driving safety hazards Guide should mention that speeding reduces reaction time by requiring more distance for braking , which increases chances of an accident occurring in front of you. Speeding is often involved in fatal crashes because it takes longer to stop a car going at higher speeds, leaving less time for potential hazards.
Focus on the road
First and foremost, it is important to understand that driving requires your full attention. Even if you are going just a few blocks or there’s no one else around. This means that trying to multi-task while behind wheel is not an option! Distracted drivers pose danger not only to themselves but also other people who use streets daily therefore they must be held accountable for their actions with fines and penalties.
If talking on phone, try using speakerphone as much as possible so your hands remain free. Don’t speed as it decreases reaction time and increases chance of getting into a crash. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on wheel at all times – this is where you belong while driving! Do not drink if you plan to drive because it impairs judgement, coordination and reaction time which can be deadly for both yourself as well as other people. Use red lights crossings only when they are green
If it’s an emergency, pull over somewhere before using phone or calling anyone In case of car trouble or accident , stay calm and alert – do not exit vehicle unless otherwise instructed by first responders Never text & drive – remember that sending messages requires full attention therefore increases chances of getting into a crash Drive sober to avoid arrest – alcohol affects coordination, reduces judgement and slows reactions Therefore try to follow these tips to minimize risks associated with driving safety hazards Guide article should also include advice regarding types of distractions which can affect drivers not only while behind wheel but before and after car accident as well.
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