In today’s fast-paced world, driving safely is a habit that needs to be consistently practiced. Understanding these five common causes of car crashes, and what to do to avoid them as a teen driver, can mean the difference between getting injured or arriving to your destination safely.
1. Speeding and Teen Car Crashes
When you speed, you can lose control of your vehicle and it reduces the time to react to certain situations. The higher your speed, the less time you have to avoid a collision. Reduce your speed, especially in congested areas, to ensure you have enough time to react and you’ll make the roads safer by doing so. This is the first thing within your control that you can abide by to avoid car crashes.
2. Distracted Driving
Whether you’re texting and driving, talking on the phone, scrolling through your social media feeds or adjusting the radio, distracted driving is one of the top causes of teen car crashes. In many states, it’s the law to use hands-free bluetooth technology when talking on the phone while driving. Be sure to keep both hands on the wheel at all times. Another tip to avoid distracted driving is to keep your phone in the glove compartment.
3. Impaired Driving/Drunk Driving
There’s no excuse for drinking and driving. It’s fatal, irresponsible and illogical. Be smart and call for a safe ride or use a ride service to ensure you get home safely. Drunk driving is not worth the financial costs, or more importantly, costing your life or the lives of others.
4. Driving Aggressively
It’s easy to get frustrated, impatient or angry while driving. If you’re in a hurry or stuck in heavy traffic, driving aggressively can seem like an easy outlet. But when you drive aggressively, you’re putting the safety of yourself and other drivers at risk. Avoid tailgating, unnecessary honking, changing lanes in an unsafe manner, or cutting off other vehicles. If you find yourself getting frustrated or impatient while driving, remain calm, take a deep breath, slow down and think about your safety. It’s also a good idea to leave early and allow plenty of time to get to your destination, thus avoiding feeling rushed. Again, this is something you have direct control over and could keep you safe, avoiding deadly car crashes.
5. Fatigued Driving
Driver’s fatigue is one of the most common causes of car crashes. When you’re not alert, your cognitive functions deplete, and your ability to safely and cautiously drive reduces. Every time you get behind the wheel, make sure you’re well rested and not feeling drowsy. Either have a friend or family member take over driving if you begin to feel tired, or if you’re alone, pull off to a safe area to get some rest before driving again.
It’s easy to get distracted while driving or let your emotions take over. Take a few seconds to refocus your energy and be present while driving. Next time you’re driving, use these tips to ensure you reach your destination safely and avoid a car crash.
Teen Car Crashes Are Preventable
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