Empty roads can lead people to believe they are the only drivers on the road and promote reckless driving behavior. Stay at home orders have also led to more cyclist and pedestrians on the road which has led many states to see an increase in cycling and pedestrian accidents.
Despite there being fewer cars on the road, states around the country have seen a rise in reckless driving-related accidents. Police in Colorado, Nebraska, Indiana, and Utah have clocked highway speeds of over 100 mph, car accidents and related fatalities have doubled in Minnesota compared to the same time in previous years, and the list goes on. As we fight to protect ourselves against Coronavirus, it important to not forget about the other dangers around us such as auto accidents.
Drive Proactively
Proactive driving means anticipating the possible dangers on the road such as bad drivers, poor weather conditions, or even collisions. When drivers are aware of the possible dangers they may encounter on the road, they are better equipped to handle these situations safely and reduce the possibility of catastrophic injury. Proactive driving involves:
- Being aware of surroundings
- Not depending on other drivers to move out of the way or let you merge
- Maintaining adequate distance from other cars. If a car is tailing you, move out of the way to ensure your safety.
- Avoiding distracted driving
Obey Street Signs and Speed Limits
It may be tempting to roll stop signs when the streets seem empty, however, it is still important to obey all street signs and speed limits. While there are fewer cars on the road, stay-at-home orders have prompted more pedestrian and cycling activity. Obeying street signs and speed limits can greatly reduce the possibility of harm to other drivers, pedestrians, and yourself.
Perform Safety Checks Before Heading Out
Cars were made to be used regularly. With fewer people commuting to work many cars are going unused for long periods of time, giving the possibility of many car issues. If your vehicle is not being used for long periods of time, make sure to perform safety checks before driving. Some things to look out for include:
- Checking for any flat or low tires
- Checking that brakes are working properly and are not screeching when being pressed on
- Looking under your vehicle to ensure nothing is hanging or leaking
- Ensuring headlights and turn signals are working properly
Avoid Driving When Tired or Stressed
With the disruption of daily life, getting an adequate amount of sleep and managing stress can be challenging. Because driving safely involves being highly alert, it is important to avoid being behind the wheel when fatigued or stressed. If you find yourself dealing with stress and fatigue related to the pandemic, follow these self-care strategies before driving your car.
While drivers can take all the necessary precautions to reduce their chances of being hit by a distracted driver, there is still a possibility of an accident due to someone else’s negligence. If you have been injured in a car accident that resulted in reckless driving, contact an experienced car accident attorney in your area to ensure you get fair compensation.
