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Tips to Curb Deadly Car Accidents
 Aggressive
driving, speeding, alcohol, and sleepiness remain
the primary causes behind automobile fatalities,
according to newly released information based upon
research conducted by an array of federal agencies
and consumer groups says Sheriff Wayne L. Jones.
Statistics gathered by the National Highway
Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA, for
example, showed that 43,443 people were killed in
automobile accidents during 2005, the most recent
survey year. Despite a 3% decrease, the number
nationally remains unacceptably high and reveals the
challenges faced by local and regional law
enforcement agencies.
“During the summer when there are more cars on the
road, drivers forget the basic rule of driving,
which is to always drive defensively,” said Sheriff
Jones. “This remains the single most important
principle of safe driving.”
Meanwhile, the NHTSA study found that more than
15,000 passenger vehicle occupants died in traffic
crashes between the nighttime hours of 6:00 P.M. and
6:00 A.M.. Other disturbing findings revealed that
an estimated 1,000 drivers are killed each month in
high speed-related crashes -- 66% of those incidents
involving a single automobile. Added Sheriff Jones,
“And, let’s not forget to factor in the ever-present
problem of drinking and driving.” In 2004, more than
16,600 people lost their lives as a result of
alcohol-impaired vehicle operators.
With this in mind, Sheriff Jones has some practical
advice to help keep you and your family safe on the
roads this summer:
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Drinking and driving don’t mix. According to the
NHTSA, three in every 10 Americans will be
involved in an alcohol-related crash at some
point. It is best to have a designated driver or
refrain from drinking than to lose your life, or
cause the loss of life of another.
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Always travel with a first-aid kit. It can offer
a quick bandage, tweezers, or alcohol rubs.
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Do not drive impaired, which means a drowsy
driver or a driver under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
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Children twelve years of age or younger should
ride in the back seat of the vehicle in
age-appropriate restraints. In 2004, there were
495 passenger-vehicle occupant fatalities among
children less than five years of age. Of the 495
fatalities, more than 35% were totally
unrestrained.
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A cell phone can save a life, but it can also
cause a collision. It is best that you pull off
the road when you need to dial a number or 911.
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Use the three-second rule -- the suggested time
interval that keeps you from tailgating another
vehicle too closely and causing an accident.
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A vehicle safety kit should be in the trunk. It
should include jumper cables, reflective
triangles, a blanket, nonperishable food, a
flashlight, and other similar safety items. Even
if you do not use many of the items, it will
provide a sense of well-being.
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Don’t fall asleep at the wheel. According to the
NHTSA, most crashes happen when people are
alone. In addition, more than 56,000 crashes
occur annually in which a drowsy driver is to
blame.
Sheriff Jones concluded, “Drive defensively every
time you get behind the wheel of your car. Make it
your habit. Keep your summer safe.”
References:
The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Child Passenger Safety Statistics
U. S.
Department of Transportation
Summer Safe Driving Tips |
