Driving is a quick, easy and convenient way to get from A to B. While there are lots of advantages to getting in a car to make a journey, statistically, driving is one of the most dangerous modes of transport. The main reason for this is the behaviour of drivers. Did you know that over 90% of accidents are caused by mistakes and errors? Many of us rate our driving skills, but if you had to sit an exam right now, would you pass with flying colours? The simplest way to reduce risks on the road is to be a safe driver. In this guide, we’ll outline some basic steps you can follow to protect yourself and others.
Speed
Speeding is one of the most common causes of collisions, most notably, fatal crashes. If you crash a car at high speed, the risk of serious injuries is significantly higher than crashing at a low speed. Always pay attention to the speed limit and keep an eye on your dashboard. It can be tempting to put your foot down on an open road when there’s nobody else around, but restrictions are there for a reason. If you drive too fast, the risk of losing control of the vehicle increases and you could also find yourself in hot water with the police. Speeding is illegal and if you cause an accident because you’re driving too fast, you will be held liable. If you crash into another car or injure a road user, they may seek advice from a car accident lawyer and pursue a compensation claim. You could receive a penalty, such as a driving ban or a fine. Make sure you’re travelling at the right speed and make adjustments for the conditions. If you get caught in a storm, for example, or the road is slippery, slow down and keep well back from the vehicle in front.
Focus
Be honest. How often do you check your phone while you’re driving or take your eyes off the road to change the radio station or put on a playlist? Many of us are guilty of distracted driving, especially in this day and age when notifications pop up every minute and people work on the go. Distracted driving is an increasingly common cause of road accidents. The trouble with taking your eyes off the road, even for a second, is that the landscape can change. Hazards can appear, seemingly out of nowhere, and all of a sudden, you can find yourself in a situation where you can’t react fast enough. The car in front may stop suddenly, a child could run out in front of you, or an animal could dart across the road. If you’re driving, you need to be ready to hit the brake pedal or steer the vehicle out of trouble at any time. Maintain focus. If you have to take a call or read an email, use a hands-free kit, make use of voice-controlled technology or pull over in a safe place.
Rest
Driving can be tiring work, especially in a country like Australia, which is vast. If you’re tired, driving becomes increasingly hazardous. Your reaction times will slow, you’ll find it harder to concentrate and you may even start to feel yourself falling asleep at the wheel. Try to ensure that you get enough rest before a long journey and schedule regular stops to get some fresh air and stretch your legs. Make sure you have drinks and snacks in the car with you if you’re driving a long distance and avoid driving late at night if possible. If you start to feel tired while you’re driving, pull over and take a nap or stop in the nearest town and grab a coffee. Listening to music and opening the windows can also make you feel more alert.
Patience
Road rage can be incredibly dangerous. If you get involved in a war of words with another driver, you start racing other cars or beeping your horns, or you get angry behind the wheel, this can impact you and other road users. Try to be patient when you’re driving. Breathe deeply and count to ten if you feel yourself getting frustrated with another driver. Give vehicles and other road users plenty of time and space. Avoid tailgating or driving aggressively. It will increase the risk of accidents and make others feel intimidated.
Drink driving
Statistics show that in 2021, more than 1,100 people lost their lives in collisions on Australian roads. Alcohol is a contributing factor to fatal crashes. Drinking alcohol can have a profound impact on the body, even if you feel like you’re absolutely fine. Alcohol increases reaction times, it affects your judgement and the decisions you make and it can also cause you to lose concentration and focus. Many people also find that they take more risks when they’ve been drinking. If you’re out and you want to enjoy a few beers, a cocktail or a couple of glasses of wine, arrange a lift home, jump in with a friend who hasn’t been drinking or use public transport. If you crash and injure others and you’re over the legal limit, you could face very serious legal consequences and you’ll have to live with the fact that you caused the accident. Drink driving can result in life-changing injuries, but it can also alter the life of the driver. It can be very difficult to move on if you know that you’ve harmed somebody else.
More than 90% of road accidents occur as a result of driver errors, mistakes or negligence. If you’re a driver, it’s essential to be aware of your responsibilities. You should prioritise your own safety, as well as that of other road users. Pay attention to the speed restrictions, be patient with other people and stay focused at all times. Avoid driving if you’re tired, take regular breaks on long journeys and steer clear of alcohol if you plan to drive. Careful driving saves lives and it can also prevent you from having to deal with legal charges and penalties.
