animalcollisionEvery October, there is a Drive Safely Work Week and National Teem Driver Safety Week. For most regions, we haven’t had to deal with snow just yet, but poor weather conditions are just one culprit that can hinder our driving skills. Driving at night, driving alone, dealing with hazards in the road such as debris, animals or even pedestrians can create a challenge all its own. Now is the time for a quick refresher on safe driving tips and how to be a better driver.

 

Avoiding Animal Collisions

Staying safe during your commute can be a challenge, especially when it involves an unexpected deer or other animal running across the road. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly one-quarter of all animal and vehicle crashes result in some form of bodily injury or vehicle damage. Whether driving in the country or city, here are some tips to keep you safe on the road:

  • Remain alert at all times and watch out for animals
  • Slow down if you see an animal up ahead, as they are generally unpredictable. Sound your horn with a long blast to scare them away
  • Use your high beams at night to see animals easier
  • Slow down on blind curve areas of the roadway
  • Watch your speed, especially during dusk and at night
  • Have your vehicle’s brakes and tires checked regularly to ensure they are in safe working order
  • Slow down at designated animal crossing areas marked by road signs. These signs indicate the area has a lot of animal traffic and an increased potential for accidents
  • Watch out for movement and shiny eyes on the roadsides. Slow down if you see anything suspicious
  • If you see an animal in front of you, do not swerve because it may cause you to hit another vehicle, side rail or lose control altogether. Instead, brake immediately
  • Always wear a seat belt; it’s your best safety defense against injury

In the Event You Hit an Animal:

  • Pull off to the side of the road and call the state patrol or local police department
  • Do not attempt to move the animal if it is lying in the middle of the road
  • Do not leave your vehicle to check on an injured animal, as it may still be alive and potentially dangerous to you
  • Call your automobile insurance agent to report the accident

Driver Distractions

When was the last time you talked on your cell phone while driving or ate behind the wheel? If you are like many drivers, you have made it a habit, putting yourself and others at risk and possibly breaking the law.

Dangers of Multi-tasking at the Wheel — While there may be little you can do to control another person’s driving, you can certainly control your own distractions. To minimize your risks while driving, avoid:

  • Talking on a cell phone or texting
  • Touching up makeup or hair in the rearview mirror
  • Tending to smoking materials
  • Adjusting the radio
  • Eating
  • Reading directions or operating a GPS

Mobile Offices — While many drivers’ attention may be diverted as a result of multi-tasking behind the wheel, nothing tops the cell phone as a driver distraction. Many drivers use their cell phones to turn their cars into mobile offices, to catch up with friends and loved ones, or to simply squeeze more “productive” time into their day.

The Danger — Cell phone use is especially dangerous because drivers typically cannot divide their attention between the road and their conversation or text. Even if you use a hands-free device, you risk being distracted and inattentive

It’s Against the Law — Many states have laws outlawing the use of cell phones and texting while driving. To avoid a ticket and a potentially dangerous accident, do not use your cell phone in any capacity while driving. If you must make a phone call or text, pull off the road safely and then do so. No message is more important than saving someone’s life

Defensive Driving — In addition to avoiding distractions, give driving your full attention by driving defensively to minimize your risk of an auto accident. Driving defensively means being aware of the movement of drivers around you and making adjustments to your driving accordingly

Safety When Driving Solo

— Traveling by car for business? To minimize your risks when you are driving alone and to avoid an unwelcome encounter, follow these useful safety tips

Be Ready — Have your key in your hand when going to your car. If you sense you may be in danger, pre-dial 911 on your cell phone before heading to your car

Parking — Plan ahead. If you will be leaving after dark, park in a well-lit area. Always lock your car

Inspect Your Car — Look around and under your car when you return to it. Check for flat tires, which might indicate tampering. Look inside the car to be sure nothing has been tampered with. Return to the building you came from at the first sign of trouble

Trust Your Instincts — If you have been followed to your car or if you suspect someone is hiding in or near it, quickly move away and find help. If you believe you may be in trouble, do not hesitate to call for help or activate your car alarm

Be Cautious, Even Inside — Once inside the car, drive with the doors locked and keep your windows up whenever possible. Be alert at stop lights

Take Action — If you suspect you are being followed, do not drive home! Pull into to the nearest, safest well-lit place and call the police

Be Smart if Bumped — If you get bumped, do not get out of your car unless you are in a safe public area. Criminals might purposely bump you and then wait for you to get out of your car to rob you. If on an isolated road, call 911 immediately. If you do not have a cell phone, continue driving to a public area. If the accident is legitimate, the other driver should follow

Making an Emergency Call — Describe what is happening in detail. Include a description of your location and surroundings, as well as any information or description you can provide about the person or persons who are threatening you

Keep Loved Ones Informed — If your trip involves several stops, tell someone where you plan to go and when you will arrive home

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