New Drivers Safety
Information
A list of some of the most common causes of
traffic accidents that result in injury or death.
Now we'll tell you how to avoid them.
As a new driver, you're undoubtedly finding
there's a lot to learn about cars, rules of the road and mastering the art
of driving. As you learn and gain experience, always remember that driving
is a serious responsibility and a privilege you should not take lightly.
You have the obligation not only for your own safety, but for the safety
of your passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians as well.
Motor vehicle crashes cause more deaths in
your age group than any other factor, accounting for more than one-third
of all deaths of 15 - 24 year olds in the United States and almost
one-third of all highway fatalities. And two- thirds of teen passenger
deaths occur when another teenager is driving. These statistics are scary,
but fortunately, you have the power to overcome many of the common causes
of traffic crashes. There are some simple things you can do to make your
driving safer and more enjoyable, and most of them are a matter of common
sense.
Common causes of traffic accidents that
result in injury or death and what you can do to prevent them:
-
Drinking & Driving
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Nearly 16,000 people die on the nation's
highways each year as the result of drunk driving, says the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And drivers under 30 years of age
account for more than half of all drinking drivers who are killed in
automobile crashes, according to the National Association of Independent
Insurers. These are very grim figures, indeed.
First and foremost, if you've been drinking
alcohol, DON'T DRIVE. Have a sober friend drive you home. Or call your
parents. Or take a cab or the bus. Don't take the chance of getting behind
the wheel of a car after drinking; even one or two drinks can affect your
driving ability. If you see friends who have been drinking, volunteer to
drive them to their destination. It's the best thing you can do for a
friend.
- Speeding
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According to the Fatal Accident Reporting
System, speeding and speed-related violations contribute to as many as 23
percent of the fatal traffic accidents reported by police. Furthermore,
the chance of death or serious injury in a crash doubles with every 10 mph
over 50 mph.
So slow down. You may be tempted to test
the limits of your skill and your vehicle. but don't overestimate your
experience. Follow the posted speed limit, and plan your schedule so you
don't find yourself rushing to make it to school, work, or an appointment
on time.
- Weather
Conditions
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You can't change the weather, but you can
improve your chances of avoiding weather-related traffic accidents. Many
drivers don't slow down in different weather conditions, and this
carelessness leads to accidents, either because drivers don't allow extra
time to stop, because they can't maneuver their vehicle, or because their
visibility is reduced.
On a snowy, rainy, or foggy day, be sure to
give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. When the roads are
slick, try taking an alternate route to avoid excessively curvy or busy
roads. If you don't trust your judgment in bad weather, how about taking
the bus or catching a ride with someone with more driving experience? Save
any unnecessary trips for sunnier days. Exercise caution and drive
defensively. Remember, in any bad weather, it's always a good idea to turn
on your headlights to increase your visibility. You want to see and be
seen by other drivers.
-
Failure To Observe Traffic
Signs
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Road signs and signals are in places to
ensure a safe flow of traffic. But many drivers don't heed them, or they
do so in a haphazard fashion.
Yield. Right turn on red. Merge. Stop. As a
driver, you have the responsibility for knowing exactly what these signs
mean and for abiding by them. Yield to oncoming traffic when entering a
roadway. At many intersections in most states, it's permissible to turn
right at a red light... only after coming to a COMPLETE stop first,
waiting for a break in traffic, then proceeding. When merging, keep your
speed up and ease into traffic. Come to a complete stop at all stop signs.
-
Failure To Share
The Road With Other Vehicles
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Roads are not just for the convenience of
automobiles. Heavy trucks, motorcycles and bicycles all - have the right
to be there, as long as they follow the rules of the road. But their size
leaves them with some disadvantages, and as an informed driver, you should
be aware of them.
Disadvantages of bicycles and motorcycles
include poor visibility for motorists, small size, and instability. Don't
pull out in front of motorcyclists or bicyclists. Sudden stops could cause
them to lose traction and slide or crash. When passing a truck, a bike, or
a motorcycle, don't pull back into your original lane too soon. These
vehicles need plenty of room, and they must compensate for sight
limitations. Heavy trucks need more time and distance to stop than
passenger cars.
Always be cautious around pedestrians,
especially in urban areas where pedestrian deaths occur most frequently.
Remember, pedestrians always have the right of way.
-
Inattentiveness At The Wheel
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There are lots of things competing for your
attention when you're behind the wheel of a car. The radio is playing.
You're talking to your friends. Maybe you're eating lunch or drinking a
soda.
Always remember that paying attention to
the road is your number one priority. You need to think ahead and be
constantly prepared for any situation. Distractions make you less able to
concentrate on safe driving. And that increases your chances of an
accident. Split seconds make a critical difference in safe driving.
- Taking Risks
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Many drivers are likely to take risks v at
the wheel. They drive too fast, or they are overconfident, racing other
drivers, playing "chicken," or dashing across railroad crossings when the
warning signals are flashing.
Play it safe. Responsible drivers don't
accept challenges to race. Be sensible. When you're behind the wheel of a
car, it's better to be safe than sorry.
-
Failure To Communicate With
Others
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As you gain experience driving, you'll find
that a lot of drivers don't seem to follow the same rules you learned.
Drivers will suddenly pull into your lane without signaling. Or they'll
make a left turn from the right lane. Some drivers seem to think they're
the only ones on the road, and this causes hazardous situations. What can
you do? Be a courteous driver. Make it a habit to let other drivers know
what you intend to do. Use your turn signal to communicate your
intentions. Don't tailgate. Pull to the left to give room to drivers who
are merging with traffic. Remember to be patient with drivers who are
unfamiliar with the area. You'll find that courtesy at the wheel is
contagious. And you'll be a better, safer driver for it.
- Vehicle
Maintenance
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Proper vehicle maintenance is another
frequently overlooked safety precaution. Remember to maintain recommended
tire pressure and adequate levels of engine oil, windshield cleaner, and
other automotive fluids (transmission, brake, power steering, and
differential). Periodically check all belts and hoses for cracks, wear,
and tightness, and replace them every two years. Follow the maintenance
schedule suggested by the car manufacturer, and keep your owner's manual
in the vehicle at all times, in case you need a quick reference. Stock
your car with emergency materials such as flares, jumper cables, a first
aid kit a fire extinguisher and a flashlight.
A final, but important, reminder: Remember
to wear your safety belt, whether you're the driver of a car or a
passenger, front seat or back. Wearing a safety belt can significantly
reduce your risk of serious injury or death in a car accident. Make sure
that any children in your car are properly secured in the appropriate
child restraint seats.
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