H1: Be prepared: 10 essential automotive safety tips

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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 6 million police-reported motor vehicle crashes in 2018. What's more, approximately 1.25 million people die each year from road traffic injuries. These staggering statistics show why prioritizing road safety and defensive driving is critical. Whether you're a seasoned or new-to-the-road driver, implementing the safety tips and preventative measures we discuss can help you avoid accidents and reduce your risk of injury.

H2: 10 tips for safe driving and accident prevention 

Keep these driving safety tips in mind the next time you get behind the wheel:

H3: #1: Never drive drunk

Did you know that more than 30% of fatal car accidents involve alcohol? Alcohol impairs our ability to drive in several ways, including:

• Reduced reaction time
• Reduced judgment
• Reduced coordination
• Increased risk-taking
• Impaired vision
• Drowsiness

Buzzed driving is drunk driving, and even low levels of alcohol can reduce your reaction time and cause reckless driving choices. 

Not only is drunk driving dangerous, but it's also a crime. In the United States, operating a vehicle with a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher can result in jail time, hefty fines, and insurance ramifications.

H3: #2: Always wear your seatbelt

When you wear your seatbelt as a front-seat passenger, you can limit your chances of moderate to severe injuries by 50%. You can also reduce fatalities by 45%. It may seem obvious, but one in 10 drivers and passengers report not wearing their seatbelt, accounting for 43% of car accident deaths in 2019.

Seatbelts can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death from an accident. You can't get any more essential and easy than buckling up whenever you're in the car.

H3: #3: Educate your kids

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teens aged 16-19. Unfortunately, this age group also has a fatal crash rate nearly three times as high as drivers aged 20 and older. 

As a parent, it's up to you to talk to your kids about the risks of distracted driving, drunk driving, and other dangerous behaviors. You can set a good example by following safe driving practices and reinforcing the importance of responsible driving. Encourage your teen drivers to limit the number of passengers in their cars, avoid using their phones while driving, and never get behind the wheel after drinking.

H3: #4: Take your vehicle for regular maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and reduce the risk of accidents.

Make sure the mechanic does the following at your regular check-ups:

• Checks the brakes
• Checks the battery
• Inspects and rotates/balances the tires
• Changes the oil
• Ensures the lights are working
• Checks the windshield wipers
• Inspects the belts and hoses
• Checks the fluids
• Check the suspension and steering

If the mechanic finds any issues during the inspection, have them fix the problem areas immediately. You don't want the issues to turn into bigger headaches — and larger safety hazards — down the road.

To optimize your automotive safety, get your car serviced every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.

H3: #5: Practice defensive driving

Defensive driving involves being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards on the road. Make sure you're driving defensively by:

• Staying alert and avoiding distractions
• Keeping a safe following distance
• Scanning the road ahead for potential hazards
• Yielding to other drivers
• Following the speed limit and all traffic laws
• Using your signal when you need to turn

You can even get a discount on most insurance policies for participating in a defensive driving course! 

H3: #6: Avoid distractions

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents — and death — on the roadway. Avoid this deadly habit by:

• Putting your phone away
• Limiting how often you touch and look at your GPS, radio, and other electronics
• Limiting conversation with passengers
• Avoiding eating and drinking
• Using voice commands if your car is equipped with them

H3: #7: Don't drive drowsy

Did you know that driving drowsy is as dangerous as driving drunk or high? That's because, like alcohol and drugs, driving drowsy can impair your ability to drive safely and react quickly. Avoid drowsy driving by:

• Getting enough sleep
• Driving only during your regular awake hours
• Taking breaks
• Recognizing when you're tired so that you can pull over for a nap or ask a passenger to drive for a while 

H3: #8: Share the road

Sharing the road is an important part of being a responsible and safe driver. Here are some tips:

• Be aware of other vehicles and any pedestrians or cyclists who are nearby.
• Yield to pedestrians — they always have the right of way.
• Watch for cyclists and give them plenty of space. Pass cyclists at a safe distance and never honk at them.
• Always use your turn signals. 

H3: #9: Keep your cool

Sixty-six percent of traffic fatalities come from aggressive driving and road rage. To keep your cool on the road, give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Rushing around often leaves people feeling anxious while driving. So leave early, listen to calming music or your favorite podcast, and avoid gesturing.

H3: #10: Keep your distance

"Tailgating" or following too closely behind the car ahead is a dangerous habit. Instead, you should stay an appropriate distance from them. Experts recommend keeping at least three seconds between your vehicle and the one in front. To do this, pick a stationary object on the road, such as a sign or a tree, and count the seconds it takes to reach the object after the vehicle in front of you passes it.

H2: Frequently asked questions

H3: What are some common causes of car accidents?

• Distracted driving
• Drunk driving
• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Weather conditions
• Fatigue 

H3: How can I ensure my vehicle is in good condition before a long drive?

For vehicle safety, you should check the vehicle's fluid levels, tire pressure, battery, and lights before embarking on a road trip.

H3: What should I do if I'm involved in an accident?

If you're involved in an accident, check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 9-1-1. Then, move to a safe location and call the police. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) and take pictures of the scene and damage. Then, call your insurance agent.

H3: What are the most important traffic laws to know?

• Speed limit
• Stop signs
• Traffic lights
• Right of way
• School zones

H3: What are some defensive driving techniques?

• Stay attentive.
• Anticipate the actions of other drivers and passengers. 
• Keep a safe distance.
• Use your signals.

H2: Contact Dairyland today

Car safety and protecting yourself and your fellow drivers should always be a priority, but accidents can still happen. That's why having Dairyland Insurance can help. Dairyland offers comprehensive coverage options that can help protect you financially if an accident occurs. Contact us today to learn more.