Simple Solutions For Bad Driving Habits

Some driving behaviors can increase the risk of car accidents.

We've all seen drivers doing some risky things while behind the wheel, but how common are bad driving habits? In the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety's annual Traffic Safety Culture Index, more than half of respondents admitted to engaging in some type of risky driving behavior.

That probably isn't very surprising. However, bad driving habits aren't just annoying. They frequently lead to car accidents that leave people seriously injured. Drivers who are distracted, impaired, fatigued, speeding, or aggressive are a big problem on the roads in South Carolina and across the nation.

But there are simple solutions for these behaviors. AAA offers the following fixes for common bad driving habits.

Distraction

There are many potential sources of distraction when driving. But the one that causes the most problems is the smartphone. Too many drivers on the road are using their phones to talk, text, and email. When drivers look at a phone, they are not paying attention to the road – which can easily lead to an accident.

Barbara Ward, an AAA Northeast traffic safety specialist, offers a simple solution. Take away the temptation of the phone. Put it on "do not disturb." Then, put it out of reach.

Impairment

Some drivers get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, using marijuana, or using other drugs. But both alcohol and drugs can impair driving skills. Impaired drivers tend to have poor judgment, slower reaction times, and a reduced ability to make good decisions.

The solution is to make a commitment to avoid driving after having any alcohol or drugs. Plan ahead by choosing a sober driver. You can take a cab. Or use Lyft, Uber, or another rideshare service.

Fatigue

Drowsy driving refers to operating a vehicle while feeling excessively tired, fatigued, or sleepy. This behavior can be as dangerous as impaired driving. Fatigue can impair a driver's ability to stay alert, make quick decisions, and react to potential hazards on the road. In the survey, 18% of respondents reported drowsy driving.

The solution? Don't drive if you are feeling too tired. Plan ahead when taking long trips. If traveling with someone else, take turns driving. If traveling alone on a long trip, pull over every two hours or 100 miles to take a break.

Speeding

This refers to driving a vehicle at a speed that exceeds the posted speed limit or is too fast for road and traffic conditions. This is a common habit - more than 22% of survey respondents reported speeding. When drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to obstacles, less ability to control the vehicle, and need a greater distance to come to a complete stop.

The solution is obvious. Slow down. Pay attention to the posted speed limit and follow it. Adjust speed to match changing road or traffic conditions. Using cruise control on the highway can help you stick to the posted limit.

Aggression

Aggressive driving refers to a range of behaviors by drivers who operate their vehicles in a hostile, intimidating, or reckless manner. Examples include tailgating, cutting off other vehicles, and frequent and abrupt lane changes. These behaviors put drivers and others at risk on the road.

The solution is to remain calm. Follow the rules of the road at all times. If other drivers act aggressively, don't respond with more aggression. Don't interact with them, and avoid eye contact.

If you were hurt in a crash, talk to an experienced car accident lawyer

There's no question that bad driving habits are dangerous. Negligent drivers cause accidents that leave people hurt. Victims of these accidents deserve financial compensation, but the legal process can be complicated. Negligent drivers deny doing anything wrong. And insurance companies try to pay as little as possible.

The experienced car accident attorneys at Twenge + Twombley Law Firm can help. Our attorneys build strong cases that hold negligent drivers accountable. Our firm investigates accidents to get the facts that matter. We fight back against insurance company tactics to minimize your claim. We are determined to help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve.

If you were hurt in a car accident in Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, or anywhere in South Carolina, learn more about how we can help. Call the small firm that gets big results. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.