Operating a motor vehicle is arguably the most dangerous task people regularly perform. Most people have become so comfortable driving that they fail to treat their daily commute with the respect it deserves.
Drivers generally become more competent and skilled as they spend time on the road. No amount of theoretical learning can replace the practical skills people develop by regularly driving. That being said, driving regularly without any major incidents can give people a false sense of confidence.
Drivers may become complacent and may cease following best practices consistently. They may then cause collisions that have devastating consequences. A refresher on safety tips can help people minimize their risk of causing collisions.
1. Avoid digital distraction
Mobile phones create a perfect storm of distracted driving. They mentally distract the driver by taking their focus off of their surroundings. They cause visual distraction as drivers look down at their devices and manual distraction as they handle the device.
Even if people commit to leaving their phones in a purse or in the passenger seat of their vehicle, hearing the phone ping or vibrate can cause cognitive distractions. Drivers may want to intentionally silence their phones before starting their vehicles as a way of limiting the risk of cognitive distraction and the temptation to check their phones while driving.
2. Make communication a priority
Many crashes occur because people misunderstand what others intend to do in traffic. Sporadic use of turn signals is a major contributing factor to this particular issue.
Drivers who consistently use their signals to indicate their intention to turn or merge are less likely to end up involved in crashes and may limit their risk of being found at fault if a crash does occur. Consistently using turn signals and monitoring others for indications of impending turns can significantly increase personal safety in traffic, especially at intersections or on busy highways.
3. Avoid chemical impairment
Many people assume that so long as they can pass a breath test, they are good to drive. However, many people experience diminished capabilities when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is still well under the legal limit.
Particularly when combining alcohol with other substances, including prescription medication, impairment can sneak up on drivers faster than they realize. Whether an individual enjoyed a couple of drinks at an office party or is on medication for a cold, they may want to avoid driving when they are not completely sober.
People also need to have a workable plan in place for responding if a motor vehicle collision does occur. Knowing how to react to a crash could be as important as taking proactive steps to minimize crash risk.