Drive safely this holiday season
With the holiday season gearing up so are the numbers of drivers on the road. Every year there are millions of accidents and every year during the holiday season the freeways are full of travelers. The discouraging facts according to car-accidents.com are roughly 115 fatalities a day are a result of traffic accidents in the United States. That is one death every 13 minutes. Experts say driving safely requires constant attention, alertness and defensive activity. “We are inattentive drivers,” said Bob Schaller who is the author of the online defensive driving manual, “Drive Safe with Uncle Bob” and a driving instructor in Phoenix. “Almost all collisions are preventable, if drivers were paying attention to the driving task. We are distracted by dozens of non-driving activities, plus, by nature, we are mental multi-taskers.” He gives some tips. Make sure to be well-rested for long trips. Give your mind a break once in a while. Avoid distractions such as eating, cellphones, and radio and CD adjustments. Be aware of the drivers around you. Never drive under the influence of alcohol. Stay buckled into the car when driving. Drive the speed limit and stay calm and courteous in traffic situations. Before an extended trip, ensure that your car has been serviced. Carry basic supplies just in case the car breaks down, such as water, flashlights, spare tires and blankets. Avoid the heaviest traffic times so the drive is not rushed. Finally, if driving to an unfamiliar destination have maps available and directions on hand.
