How to Drive Safely When the Only Safe Driving Speed Is ZERO!

How to Protect Yourself On the Roads

Picture an action movie: The coolest character zooms into frame at astronomical speeds. American media glorifies the idea of speeding through the roadways, but in reality, speeding is a major detriment to our safety and lives.

According to The Economist, compared to the rest of the world, the number of road fatalities in America each year is decreasing at a slow rate, with 40,327 deaths on the road occurring in 2016 alone. While the US is trying to tackle its reckless driving problem, other nations in the world are taking bold steps toward reducing traffic accidents due to speeding.

France is tackling the issue of speeding head on, recently declaring a decrease in the speed limit on rural single carriage roads that will go into effect on July 1st. The 10 kilometer per hour reduction (about 6 miles per hour) is estimated to save up to 400 lives, according the French government. Although it is facing pushback from the rural public, this sort of legislation is a good example of taking action against the dangers of speeding.

Startling Facts Throughout the US

Nationwide, facts on road fatalities tied to speeding are startling. Even on a state-by-state level, the statistics are harrowing. In 2015 in South Carolina, a total of 40,593 collisions were caused by driving too fast for conditions, causing 216 fatalities according to the South Carolina Traffic Collision fact book.

Further, accidents caused by drivers exceeding the authorized speed limit totaled 424, leading to 32 deaths. Several of the crashes that did not result in deaths were still severe, with injuries from both categories totaling over 17,500.

How to Protect Yourself On the Roads

At any speed, the danger of stepping into your car each time you drive is high. The roadways are the 8th highest cause of fatalities worldwide. The only safe driving speed is zero. But in a society where driving is a large part of everyday life, how can you protect yourself?

It’s important to follow safe driving guidelines each time you step into your vehicle. Here are a few things to keep in mind while driving:

●Stay Alert: It’s easy to not pay attention while driving. Whether it’s a text message you have been waiting to receive, or the breakfast you didn’t have time to eat that morning, driving is full of distractions. Be sure to keep your road awareness at 100% when driving.

● Plan Ahead: Before hitting the gas, check to make sure that everything is ready for your journey. All cargo should be safely stored. Any items you might need during your commute should be easy to access. All mirrors, radios, and temperature controls should be set before you take off. Start your journey at an appropriate time so that you don’t feel pressured to go faster than necessary to be on time.

● Be a Defensive Driver: No matter how much you do to monitor your own driving, you can’t control how the people you are sharing the road with behave. Be sure to pay attention to the vehicles around you, and pick up on anything odd about their driving habits. Expect the unexpected, and be prepared to avoid an oncoming accident. Be sure to keep a reasonable distance between your car and the cars around you.

Speak with a Car Accident Attorney Today

Even if you’re the most cautious driver on the road, accidents can happen. If you are unlucky enough to be involved in a car accident that was caused by a speeding or reckless driver, reach out toGeorge Sink, P.A Injury Lawyers.Our team of experienced attorneys will work hard to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call today for your free consultation.