Driving Defensively
More than 41,000 people lose their lives in motor vehicle crashes
each year and over two million more suffer disabling injuries,
according to the National Safety Council. The triple threat of high
speeds, impaired or careless driving and not using occupant restraints
threatens every driver—regardless of how careful or how skilled.
Driving defensively means not only taking responsibility for
yourself and your actions but also keeping an eye on "the other
guy." The National Safety Council suggests the following
guidelines to help reduce your risks on the road.
- Don't start the engine without securing each passenger in the
car, including children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of
lives each year! Lock all doors.
- Remember that driving too fast or too slow can increase the
likelihood of collisions.
- Don't kid yourself. If you plan to drink, designate a driver who
won't drink. Alcohol is a factor in almost half of all fatal motor
vehicle crashes.
- Be alert! If you notice that a car is straddling the center
line, weaving, making wide turns, stopping abruptly or responding
slowly to traffic signals, the driver may be impaired.
- Avoid an impaired driver by turning right at the nearest corner
or exiting at the nearest exit. If it appears that an oncoming car
is crossing into your lane, pull over to the roadside, sound the
horn and flash your lights.
- Notify the police immediately after seeing a motorist who is
driving suspiciously.
- Follow the rules of the road. Don't contest the "right of
way" or try to race another car during a merge. Be respectful
of other motorists.
- Don't follow too closely. Always use a "three-second
following distance" or a "three-second plus following
distance."
- While driving, be cautious, aware and responsible.
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