Dangerous driving habits are on the increase according to a new report from AAA. The study, from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, says that dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, red-light running, drowsy driving, and driving while impaired by cannabis or alcohol have all increased. Perhaps the most ominous figure was the increase in drivers who admitted to getting behind the wheel even after drinking enough to feel they were above the legal limit. That number increased by nearly 25% over the past two years.
“The reversal in the frequency of U.S. drivers engaging in risky driving behavior is disturbing,” said Mark Jenkins, Public Relations Manager for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “While drivers acknowledge that certain activities like speeding and driving impaired are not safe, many engage in these activities anyway. This reckless attitude can be life-altering.”
Avoiding Dangerous Driving Habits
AAA tips for avoiding dangerous driving habits include:
- Be mindful of your own driving habits. AAA members can sign up for AAADrive via the free AAA Mobile App. This tool helps you become a safer driver by giving real time feedback and providing resources that promote safe driving and reduce dangerous activities.
- Be prepared in the event of a crash. Keep an emergency kit with first-aid and roadside visibility items (e.g., flashlight, flares) in your car. You should also keep a copy of your proof of insurance (plus a pen and paper) in your glove box and add your insurance company’s phone number and your policy number to your phone.
- Know what to do when a crash occurs. Check for injuries, call 911 and remain at the scene. If no one is injured and your vehicle is drivable, turn on the hazard lights and safely move it to an emergency lane or parking area. If the vehicle can’t be moved, turn on the hazard lights and go to a spot safely away from moving traffic until emergency services arrive. You should exchange information with all parties, take photos of the location, people involved and damaged vehicles, and notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Move Over for Me. If you see flashing lights ahead and are driving past a crash or disabled vehicle, slow down and move over a lane to give the stranded motorist and first responders the space to be safe on the roadside.
Dangerous driving habits are a form of driver negligence. If you’ve been hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 866-730-3508 for a free consultation. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida.
