Every year, thousands of Americans are involved in car accidents across the country. Many of these unfortunate accidents could potentially be avoided by a few simple safety habits. Keep yourself out of harm’s way in 2022 with some safe driving tips.
Safe Driving Tips to Focus on This Year
Put Away the Cell Phone
According to the CDC, more than 2,800 Americans lost their lives in 2018 alone due to distracted driving. As challenging as it often is to put the phone away, it can make you and others a lot safer on the road. A huge number of accidents in the U.S. can be attributed to distracted driving and mobile devices are often the culprit. Make a conscious effort to keep your cell phone out of sight, especially during busy rush hour traffic.
Don’t Drink & Drive
In most states, the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08%. It’s best to avoid alcohol altogether if you’re planning on driving. Since alcohol is a depressant, driver reaction time is affected after even just a few drinks. When you combine alcohol with sleep deprivation or distracted driving, the chances of an accident occurring are greatly increased. If you’ve been drinking, always find alternative means of transportation.
Practice Defensive Driving
As a general rule, try to maintain one car length of distance between you and the vehicle you’re behind for every 10 miles per hour you’re driving. This will give you time to react in case traffic comes to a sudden stop or an accident occurs in front of you. Maintain awareness of the vehicles around you and further down the road, especially on the highway.
Don’t Get Angry
Road rage continues to be an issue in the U.S., but driving when in a state of distress is dangerous. Avoid getting behind the wheel if you’re stressed, nervous or angry, as these emotions will impair your judgment and increase your chances of being involved in an accident. If you feel road rage coming on when driving, it’s best to let the situation go and try to keep a level head.
Check Your Tires
It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure periodically and add air if needed. Keeping your tires full of air will help ensure they are getting adequate traction, which is especially important during inclement weather conditions. If the tread on your tires has worn a little thin, it’s probably best to consider replacing them. Also, double-check that your spare tire is properly inflated and in good working order. There’s nothing worse than having a flat tire only to discover your spare is also flat.
Find Your Vehicle at Valley Automall
Incorporate these safe driving tips into your daily routine to improve the well-being of yourself and others in 2022. If it’s time to get rid of that old car and get behind the wheel of a new vehicle with better safety features, visit Valley Automall today. Browse our vast inventory of new and used vehicles online or in person. Contact us at 702-570-2257 for more information.