In 2020, you would have thought that crashes would have slowed. There was less traffic, and there were simply fewer opportunities to get into serious collisions.
Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Even with a 13.2% decline in the miles driven, traffic deaths increased in 2020. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that the deaths are at the highest level in 13 years.
The main causes of these crashes were linked to speeding, not wearing a seat belt and impaired driving. So, what can you do to minimize your risk of injury?
Address speeding, seat belt use and impaired driving
Looking at the statistics, the best thing that people can do is to reduce the speed at which they travel and to make sure that they always wear their seat belts. Drivers also need to recognize that they can be impaired by substances such as over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, illicit drugs and alcohol.
By minimizing speeding, the likelihood of getting into a severe collision is less likely, even if a crash does occur. When you take away impairment, there is a greater likelihood that a collision will be avoided through quick maneuvers or better decision-making. Of course, if a crash happens, a seat belt helps diffuse the force, so that the person inside the vehicle is less likely to suffer severe injuries.
Safety tips can help you get to your destination in one piece
Some additional safety tips that may help you get to your destination safely include:
- Avoiding travel during rush hours or times of heavy congestion
- Putting away electronic devices like cellphones when you’re driving
- Avoiding upsetting conversations in your vehicle
- Waiting to eat or drink until you get to your destination
- Pulling over if you feel tired or distracted
Drivers have to be aware that they are responsible for their well-being as well as the safety of others. If you are injured because someone is distracted, speeding, intoxicated or otherwise driving recklessly, then you may be able to make a claim against them. It is reasonable to hold a dangerous or reckless driver responsible for the damage that they have caused in an automobile collision.