New Year’s Resolutions to Help You Become a Better Driver

Safe Driving Resolutions

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 94 percent of vehicle accidents are caused by driver error. As we embark on a brand new year, this is the perfect time to resolve to avoid contributing to this statistic by becoming a safer driver.

How to Drive Safely

Some tips that are useful for driver (and passenger) safety throughout the year:

• Always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts are your most effective defense in a collision. Ensure that children and other passengers in the front and rear seats are also buckled up, and lock the doors to prevent occupants from being thrown from the vehicle in a crash.
• Take care in bad weather. When driving in dangerous weather conditions, increase your following distance by an additional second for each of these factors: driving at night, following a motorcycle, driving in the rain, following a large truck, and driving in fog. During winter, slow down when driving through areas that ice over quickly, such as bridges, overpasses, and roads shaded by buildings or trees.
• Get plenty of rest. Rest up before a road trip. Being well-rested allows you to stay alert and attentive, so you can react quickly to changing road conditions. On longer trips, stop and take a break at least once every two hours.
• Avoid blind spots. Before you drive, walk around your vehicle once to ensure that the path is clear. Minimize blind spots by adjusting your side mirrors so far outward that they’re just overlapping your rearview mirror. Consider installing a rear-mounted video camera or backup sensors to help you avoid obstacles when you’re backing up.
• Avoid distractions. Driving is primarily a thinking task, and it deserves your undivided attention. Distractions like talking on the phone, texting, or eating slow down driver reaction times. Your car isn’t the place to multitask, so keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your mind on reaching your destination safely.

Legal Representation

If you’ve been injured due to the actions of an unsafe driver, you need professional representation by an experienced attorney. To discuss your claim, contact the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., by using the form on this page.