Safe driving is everyone's responsibility

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently reported that summer and early fall are the deadliest times of year on the country’s roads, indicating that summer months are when Americans drive the most.
 
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), motor vehicle deaths surpassed 40,000 for the second consecutive year in 2017. Further, estimates from the NSC show 4.57 million people were seriously injured in auto crashes. Distracted driving is the major contributor. 

​Modifying driving behavior can prevent auto accidents and save lives. These simple, but important tips to help us get to our destinations safely:

• Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
• Wear your seatbelt.
• Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drive impaired. If you plan on drinking, designate a driver who won’t drink.
• Be well rested and alert.
• Observe speed limits – driving too fast or too slow can increase your chance of being in a collision. Use caution in work zones.
• Plan ahead and allow extra travel time.
• Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
• Be respectful of other motorists and follow the rules of the road. Don’t follow another vehicle too closely.
• Clean your headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows to help you see, especially at night.
• Turn your headlights on as dusk approaches, or if you are using your windshield wipers due to inclement weather.
• If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible. Have a plan for roadside assistance.

 
Driving is a privilege, not a right. If we all take our actions behind the wheel seriously, we can make our roads safer for our family, friends, and communities.