It only takes a quick look at road safety statistics to see that accidents are more frequent than ever. While this is largely attributed to the volume of vehicles on the road, it highlights the need to take responsibility as a road user.
Only a comprehensive strategy will keep you safe in 2023 and beyond. Here’s all you need to know.
Appreciate Your Vehicle
First and foremost, you should know your vehicle. Motorbike riders must understand that there are some unique challenges on top of the standard aspects facing car users. Likewise, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the safety features of your vehicle. Regardless of whether it’s a boke, truck, van, or car.
Invest In Vehicle Maintenance
Choosing a suitable car model for your needs can reduce your risks. However, it’s still vital to invest in regular maintenance and servicing. Otherwise, faulty brake pads or damaged safety features could quickly put you in danger. As well as annual serving, you should regularly top up the tire air pressure.
Know How To Respond To A Crash
No matter what preventative steps you take, road accidents can still happen. When they do, it’s vital that you respond fast. Firstly, you must call for medical help, even if you feel fine. Working with an expert like a Shelly Leeke Law Firm truck accident lawyer is vital too. They can represent your legal case, thus allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Adapt Your Vehicle
The best car models are now incredibly safe, which is shown by IIHs safety ratings. However, you may still find that it is necessary to adapt the vehicle. For example, new tires may be needed for difficult terrains. Or off-road SUVs may benefit from additional lighting facilities. Simple updates can make a huge difference.
Appreciate Your Health
Having the right vehicle is one thing, but your safety behind the wheel will be limited if you have untreated health issues. Something as simple as not wearing prescription glasses could delay your reaction times. So, regular health checkups to test your vision, hearing, and dexterity should be deemed essential.
Acknowledge Other Road Users
Even if you are a brilliant driver, you won’t be exempt from accidents. It only takes an error from another road user to cause a crash. While it should not strike fear into you, it should encourage you to stay alert at all times. And if you notice that someone is driving irresponsibly, you should drop well back from them off.
Stick To The Speed Limits
There are times when sticking to the speed limit can cause frustration. Especially when you’re in a rush or the roads are clear. However, it’s better to arrive late than not at all. You can check IIHS regulations to understand more about your local restrictions. Even when not instantly obvious, the laws are in place for a reason. Respect them.
Avoid Distractions
A large percentage of road accidents can be attributed to in-car distractions. If your passengers are causing problems, you must not hesitate in telling them to stop. Likewise, if entertainment aspects have caused you to look away from the road accident, it is important to put this right. Immediately.
Know Your Routes
When driving in unfamiliar places, feeling nervous can impact your safety. You can use Google Maps route finders to plan the route. You can even look at some of the key roads and attractions along the way. This can give you a far greater level of confidence from start to finish.
Never Drive When Tired
By now, you will be fully aware that drunk driving is very dangerous. However, drowsy driving may be equally problematic. Your reactions will be slower and the ability to see danger may also suffer. So, if you feel tired and need to pull over for a nap or book into a motel for the night, you should do it. Especially when traveling long distances.
