Car accidents are a leading public health issue, causing significant loss of life, injuries, and economic costs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, there were 38,824 deaths due to motor vehicle crashes in the United States. The government plays a critical role in reducing the number and severity of car accidents, but individuals also have a responsibility to take action to help keep themselves and others safe on the road. Statistics show that many victims fail to seek medical attention following a car accident, which potentially harms the victim more. Seeking medical attention and consulting a lawyer the two things a victim needs to do immediately after a car accident. Following these two steps can reduce the consequences of car accidents and can save victims a lot of money. Here are eight ways you can help the government reduce car accidents:
1. Obey traffic laws
One of the most important things you can do to help reduce car accidents is to obey traffic laws. This includes following speed limits, stopping at stop signs and red lights, and using your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns. According to the NHTSA, in 2020, speeding was a factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities. Obeying traffic laws not only helps to keep you safe, but it also helps to keep other drivers safe as well.
2. Avoid distractions
Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents, and it is up to individuals to avoid distractions while behind the wheel. This includes not using your phone while driving, not eating or drinking while driving, and not applying makeup or doing other personal grooming while driving. According to the NHTSA, in 2020, distraction-affected crashes resulted in 3,142 deaths.
3. Wear your seatbelt
Wearing your seatbelt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of injury or death in a car accident. According to the NHTSA, seatbelt use in passenger vehicles saved an estimated 15,955 lives in 2020. Make sure that you and all passengers in your vehicle are wearing their seatbelts at all times.
4. Avoid drinking and driving
Drunk driving is a major cause of car accidents, and it is up to individuals to avoid drinking and driving. According to the NHTSA, in 2020, there were 10,911 deaths in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes, accounting for 28% of all traffic fatalities. If you plan on drinking, have a designated driver or take a taxi or ride-sharing service.
5. Properly maintain your vehicle
Properly maintaining your vehicle is essential to keeping yourself and others safe on the road. This includes regular check-ups and services, ensuring that your tires are properly inflated, and making sure that your brakes, headlights, and taillights are in good working order. According to the National Safety Council, vehicle maintenance issues contributed to approximately 9% of all crashes.
6. Be aware of your surroundings
Being aware of your surroundings is essential to staying safe on the road. This includes keeping an eye out for other drivers, pedestrians, and bicycles and being prepared for unexpected situations, such as sudden stops or lane changes. According to the Federal Highway Administration, pedestrian deaths accounted for 16% of all traffic fatalities in 2020.
7. Be patient
Road rage is a leading cause of car accidents, and it is important to be patient and calm while driving. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, almost 80% of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression, or road rage behind the wheel at least once in the past year. If someone is driving aggressively or cutting you off, take a deep breath and give them space.
8. Educate others
Finally, you can help the government reduce car accidents by educating others about safe driving practices. Share these tips with friends and family, and encourage them to take a defensive driving course or participate in a community safe driving program. According to the National Safety Council, defensive driving courses can reduce the risk of a crash by up to 50%. By educating others, you can help to create a culture of safe driving and reduce the number of car accidents on the road.
Conclusion
In conclusion, car accidents are a serious public health issue that requires the collective effort of government and individuals. By following the eight tips mentioned above, you can help the government reduce car accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road. Remember that safety on the road is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play in preventing car accidents. It’s also important to note that apart from these eight ways, people should also be aware of the local laws, traffic rules, and regulations and obey them to make the road safer. It’s also important to understand that these tips are important for personal safety and the safety of our loved ones and fellow citizens.
