The Biggest Threats To Your Family’s Safety On the Road
There was a time when the automobile was the preserve of a privileged elite. Most people didn’t own one nor did they need to. The majority of people lived within walking distance of where they worked and could rely on public transport at a push. Today, however, many regard the use of their own vehicle a necessity rather than a luxury. Yet as vital as your car may be in your ability to hold down your job, get the kids to school on time and carry out the myriad duties that come with parenthood in the 2010s it behoves us to treat the humble passenger car with the respect that it deserves. If not well looked after our trusty steed can become a hazard to us and our families.
Of course, keeping on top of your car maintenance isn’t the only way in which we all need to be more aware on the road. There are a number of hazards which can seriously endanger you and your family if you don’t take steps now to prevent them…
Fatigue
Driver fatigue is something that we all tend to shrug off yet it was responsible for over 16% of all fatal collisions in the US last year. Not only must you ensure that you’re alert, aware, well fed and well hydrated while on the road, you need to look for signs of driver fatigue ion others, too. Truck drivers represent a particular risk on the road as they drive for long hours often while tired. If you are involved with a collision with a truck that wasn’t your fault, a lawyer can get the justice that you deserve from the logistics company whose driver caused the collision; find out more at their site, GBW.law/personal-injury/truck-accidents/. Staying alert and awake is the best way to guard against these kinds of hazards.
Distraction
In the digital age, distraction is almost as big a threat to drivers’ safety as alcohol. That’s exactly why the state of Washington implemented the EDUI laws that allowed police to pull over any vehicle whose driver was using an electronic device at the wheel and issue an on the spot fine. While the evolution of the smartphone has brought more immediacy to our communication with the world, there’s very little you can read on your phone’s screen that can’t wait until you arrive safely at your destination. Such distraction can lead to people getting into a car accident or road rage. So, if you or your loved one has been injured because of somebody else’s negligence, you can consult an attorney and file a claim against the liable party.
Car seats
Yup, you read that right. While car seats are instrumental in protecting your kids while they travel in the car with you, they can be lethal when installed without due care and attention. When you strap in your child’s car seat ensure that you aren’t making these all too common mistakes made by parents.
Your driving style
Even when our teen years are behind us we all get the need for speed every once in a while. Whether it’s because we’re running late or simply enjoy the exhilaration of driving fast, many of us can fall into the habit of developing a leaden foot behind the wheel. But if you’re regularly rushing to catch the light, tailgating the car in front or treating the speed limit as a target rather than a limit, you could be endangering your family’s health.
Adapt to a more defensive driving style and your family will be safer and happier. You’re even more likely to get to your destination on time!
