Posted on February 16, 2023 in Personal Injury
A recent survey conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers are engaging in risky driving behaviors more frequently, even though most motorists recognize the dangers that these behaviors pose. This article examines the study in detail and explains what you can do to stay safe behind the wheel.
Leading Dangerous Driving Habits
The AAA survey identified several dangerous driving habits that drivers frequently engage in:
- 26 percent of drivers admitted to having sent a text or email while driving.
- 36 percent of drivers admitted to having read a text or email while driving.
- Approximately 50 percent of the survey respondents admitted to driving at 15 mph or more above the speed limit in the past 30 days.
- 19 percent of drivers admitted to continuing to drive while feeling drowsy within the past 30 days.
- 7 percent of drivers admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol (to the point of being over the legal limit) within the past 30 days.
However, the survey also found that:
- 92 percent of drivers believed texting or emailing while driving was very or extremely dangerous.
- About 50 percent of drivers stated that driving 15 mph or more above the speed limit was very or extremely dangerous.
- 95 percent of drivers stated that they believed drowsy driving to be very or extremely dangerous.
- 94 percent of drivers felt that driving over the legal BAC limit was very or extremely dangerous, although only 65 percent of drivers believed that driving within one hour of using marijuana was very or extremely dangerous.
These statistics make it clear that while drivers are usually aware of the risks of dangerous driving habits, it doesn’t stop all of them from engaging in those risky behaviors.
Tips on How to Cut Risks Behind the Wheel
You can help protect yourself from accidents caused by risky driving by following these tips:
- Avoid using your cell phone while driving, especially to prevent texting and driving accidents. If you need to use your phone, pull off the road where safe to do so or use a hands-free, voice-activated system.
- Never drive after drinking or using drugs, and never ride in a vehicle driven by someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Have a designated driver, take public transit, or call a taxi or rideshare.
- Obey posted speed limits. Slow down when driving in adverse weather.
- Avoid driving late at night or after a long day. Remember to take frequent breaks on long road trips and trade driving duties if traveling with other licensed drivers.
- If you see another driver engaging in risky or unsafe behavior – such as aggressive driving, or you see a driver you suspect might be intoxicated or fatigued – pull over when it is safe to do so and let that driver pass. Then stop and contact law enforcement if necessary.
AAA also recommends keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle packed with items that can help in an accident or breakdown, such as a first-aid kit, a flashlight, flares or warning triangles, jumper cables, and blankets.
If You’re Injured in a Car Accident, The Melonakos Law Firm Can Help Today
Were you hurt in a car accident that wasn’t your fault? Contact us online or call The Melonakos Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our personal injury lawyers fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
Michael, a lawyer who honed his skills at premier Atlanta insurance defense firms, specializes in cases involving trucking, auto, and premises liability, adeptly representing both local and national clients.
