Ways to Avoid Dangerous Driving Patterns

Allstate Insurance recently announced its annual report of America’s Best Drivers. Atlanta drivers might be surprised to learn that the city ranks relatively low on the list, at 186 out of the 200 most populous cities in the United States. While this report suggests that there are a large number of unsafe drivers in Atlanta, it is important to understand that the study only studied Allstate drivers and was based on the number of accidents involving those drivers between 2015 to 2016.

In regards to specific types of accidents, the report reveals that Atlanta drivers had approximately 30 hard-braking events for every 1,000 miles driven.

Statistics about Dangerous Drivers

Allstate is not the only entity to warn about the danger involved with motor vehicle driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also reports that there are 35,000 crashes each year and that traffic accidents rank among the top 10 causes of death each year. In many situations, operator error is a key factor in motor vehicle accidents.

Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to avoid ending up in a motor vehicle accident.

Speeding While Driving

Speeding is one of the leading causes of deadly traffic accidents. The faster a person goes, the more likely that the driver will end up in a serious accident. Rather than attempt to speed while driving, it is a wise idea to leave yourself ample time to reach your destination as well as to keep an eye on your vehicle’s speedometer.

Driving While Tired

Driving while tired is particularly dangerous. Each year, many people who insist on driving while tired end up falling asleep at the wheel. The best way to avoid falling asleep while driving is to pull off the road if you feel even the least bit tired. It is better to take a slightly extended amount of time to get to your destination rather than risk falling asleep while driving.

Driving While Distracted

Attempting to do things like talk on the phone, text, put on makeup, brush your teeth, shave, read, or anything else while driving greatly increases the chances that you will end up in a serious accident. The best way to avoid ending up in a distracted driving accident is to under no circumstances ever perform any type of activity while you operating a vehicle.

All it takes is a few seconds of diverted attention while driving to have a deadly accident happen.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving includes a variety of unsafe driving patterns including accelerating and braking suddenly, passing on the right, and weaving in and out of traffic. The best way to avoid any type of reckless driving pattern is to make sure to always follow all posted rules of traffic even if traffic signs do not appear necessary.

Speak with a Skilled Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one faces citations related to unsafe driving patterns, you should not hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer who will make sure that your case will resolve in the best possible manner. Contact Yeargan & Kert LLC today to schedule an initial free consultation.