4 Defensive-Driving Strategies to Protect Your Family

Road accidents continue to be one of the leading causes of deaths in the world today. 400,000 people below the age of 25 die every year from road accidents worldwide. With these large figures in place, people should develop defensive driving habits.

Defensive driving involves incorporating safe driving strategies. An individual can take up defensive driving classes to improve their driving skills. These defensive driving strategies will also help you protect your life and that of your family.

Constantly Check Your Mirrors

The side mirrors are there for a reason. Ensure you utilize them by scanning the area behind you regularly. Many drivers pay more attention to cars in front of them and forget the vehicles behind them. However, the driver’s eyes should always be continually scanning the vicinity. Reports show that a third of the road accidents are as a result of rear-ends collisions.

Always Look Ahead

Driving requires concentration. Therefore, every time you are behind that wheel, ensure that nothing sways your focus. Your eyes should not only look at the area directly within your sight, but look further ahead as well. Looking ahead can help you be aware of any incoming danger and help you incorporate safety measures before an accident happens.

Take Breaks If You Are Tired

Driving while tired is one of the common causes of road accidents. Truck drivers are more prone to this problem. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck drivers are legally limited to a strict maximum of hours driven consecutively to avoid drowsy driving. Though because of their huge amount of time on the road, these drivers are more likely to cause accidents.

If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a crash with a truck driver, you may want to contact a personal injury attorney to help you get the compensation you need to repair or replace your vehicle, or pay for medical bills and lost wages.

Avoid Distractions

Many drivers tend to drive while on the phone. However, this is very dangerous. Driving while distracted is the leading cause of accidents. Ensure that all your concentration is 100 percent on the road.

The daily statistics of the number of death caused by road accidents is estimated to be above 1,000. The U.S is facing a major road accidents crisis with 2016 being one of the deadliest years for the country since 2007. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of deaths resulting from road accidents in the first half of the year was 17,775.