Most people rate themselves as good drivers, but statistics show that over 90% of accidents are caused by driver errors. Being responsible behind the wheel can help to lower the risk of collisions and crashes. Next time you get into the car, take these tips on board to protect yourself and other road users.

Pay attention to the speed limit

Speeding is one of the most common causes of severe car crash injuries. If you crash at high speed, the risk of serious injuries increases. Pay attention to the speed limit and be prepared to reduce your speed if the weather conditions change or there is a lot of traffic on the road. It’s important to remember that speed restrictions are not guidelines. If you drive too fast, there’s a risk of getting pulled over by the police, and you could face legal action if you cause an accident. Car accident lawyers like attorney Eric Ramos specialize in helping individuals who have been injured on the roads through no fault of their own. Check the speed limit for the road you’re driving on and slow down if the road is slippery or visibility is poor. 

Give other vehicles time and space

As a driver, you have to be considerate of others and give other vehicles time and space. Try to avoid putting pressure on other people by driving too close to them or using your horn to hurry them. Keep well back from the car in front of you and provide other drivers and road users with signals in plenty of time if you plan to stop or turn off the road. Be patient and drive to the conditions. Nobody likes to be stuck in lines of traffic but getting angry and frustrated won’t help anyone and it could increase the risk of an accident.

Focus on the road

Most of us are used to multitasking. We check emails and send messages while we’re walking around, we take notes during meetings and update spreadsheets during calls, and we scroll through social media while we watch TV. When you’re driving, you’re already multitasking, so try to avoid any other distractions. You should be focused on the road ahead. Avoid checking your phone and use technology if you have to make a call or send an email. You can use voice commands or hands-free systems. If you’re distracted, you won’t be able to react quickly, and this could result in a collision. 

Don’t drive under the influence

Figures suggest that more than 30 people die in the US every day due to crashes caused by drunk drivers. Drinking alcohol impacts your ability to drive safely. Even if you feel fine, you will put other people at risk if you decide to get behind the wheel while under the influence. Alcohol can impair judgment and slow reaction times. It can also make us lose focus and cause us to take risks. If you want to drink, book a cab, use public transport or arrange a lift with a friend or family member who hasn’t been drinking. If you cause a crash, you could be charged, and the victim may decide to claim compensation. 

Take regular breaks

Long car journeys can be tiring. If you feel tired while you’re driving, take a break. Get some fresh air, have something to eat, grab a coffee and stretch your legs. If you’re struggling to stay awake and you can feel your eyes closing, take a nap or find a place to stay and delay your journey. Driving tired affects your reaction times and concentration span and it could even end up with you falling asleep at the wheel. If you’re going on a road trip, pinpoint places to stop and stay en route to avoid driving for long stretches. 

Follow the rules of the road

Rules might not make driving fun, but they serve a purpose. There are laws and guidelines in place to minimize the risk of accidents and keep drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safe. Follow the rules of the road at all times.

Most of us think that we are excellent drivers, but driver mistakes are responsible for over 90% of accidents. Next time you get behind the wheel, think about your driving habits and follow these steps to stay safe and protect others. Pay attention to speed restrictions, give other vehicles time and space, be patient and keep your eyes on the road at all times. Follow the rules of the road, take regular breaks and do not drive if you’ve been drinking alcohol.