Did you know that car manufacturers use an average of 8,000 bolts when they assemble a car? But it only takes one loose or missing bolt to make that car a hazardous machine.
As a result, there have been numerous laws and pieces of legislation passed over the past few decades to increase safety on the roads and decrease the number of fatal accidents that occur every year. Nevertheless, there are over six million accidents that occur every year, and almost half of these accidents are considered serious. These accidents and collisions cause various agencies over $200 billion every year in financial responsibility.
The three main causes for this large number of accidents are:
- Speeding
- Driving Under The Influence
- Driving While Distracted
The average driver can help reduce this annual statistic by making sure they are driving a vehicle that is properly maintained. They also need to learn how to prepare for the different risks they may encounter on the road.
Do Not Drive While Distracted
This is one of the first and most basic steps that you can take to become a better driver. Stop changing the radio while you are driving. Do not look at your GPS and do not talk on your mobile phone. Never read the newspaper, put makeup on, or eat a meal behind the wheel either. You should only focus on the important task that is driving. If you need to divert your full attention away from the road whilst you are driving, pull your car off of the road. You’d be surprised by how many accidents are caused by simple distractions like these that take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road, so changing your habits will definitely make a huge difference and make the road a much safer place for all drivers, as well as pedestrians.
Buy a Car with a Good Safety Rating
Every year, several consumer protection agencies reveal the safest cars of that year. Before you purchase your car, check its safety rating. If you are buying a used car, you should check for the safety rating and the car’s history. The added safety features on today’s most advanced vehicles are making it easier to remain aware while on the road. For example, blind spot monitors can help you avoid collisions, and today’s cars can also sound an alarm if you are veering off into the next lane. Or you can invest in a car that has a backup camera or that parallel parks itself. Cars are now built stronger than ever, with more airbags too. The choices are endless, but be prepared to pay extra for these great safety features.
Choose a Good Mechanic
Knowing what mechanic to go to when your car is in need of repairs in vitally important to ensuring that the repairs will be made correctly and that your vehicle will operate better and more safely once the repairs are made. A negligent mechanic that is out just to make money, on the other hand, can do a lot more harm than good to your vehicle and, ultimately, to your safety on the road.
It can be difficult to know if a mechanic is reputable or not. You can ask for recommendations from friends and family. The mechanic that you choose should have all of the proper licenses and accreditations. Your car insurance company can also recommend a good mechanic because they deal with a variety of mechanics on a daily basis.
Take Special Precautions When Driving in the Winter
Winter driving can bring special challenges for a driver. You should double-check all of your blind spots before you move your vehicle into another lane, and you should drive much more slowly and carefully in order to avoid slipping on ice and snow, especially black ice that is invisible. Also, make sure your tyres have the proper tread, and purchase snow chains if you need them.
Have a Checklist Before You Go On A Road Trip
Make sure that you thoroughly inspect your vehicle before you go on a trip. It is best that you take your car to your mechanic before you leave for your trip, but if you are not able to, you can check several areas yourself:
- Wiper Blades
- All Lights
- Fluid Levels
- Battery
- Tires
The number of car accidents will continue to increase if drivers do not become more aware of their driving habits and the safety of their cars. Always make sure your car is well maintained and stay alert!
VIDEO: Vehicle Safety Inspection Demo