Unfortunately, injuries and fatalities from driving accidents are extremely common. While distracted or drunk driving tends to be the lead cause of accidents, unfortunately, even sober and attentive drivers can make small mistakes — and sometimes, they suffer big consequences.
By staying aware of some of the most common mistakes drivers make that lead to accidents, you can improve your proactive driving and reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident. With that, here are some of the most common mistakes people make while driving.
- Failing to yield. One of the most difficult aspects of driving is the unpredictability of other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Following the rules of right-of-way is important, and when in doubt, driving predictably and yielding as needed to prevent a collision is often the best course of action.
- Improperly using your headlights and high beams. If you don't use your headlights in conditions of poor visibility like darkness and bad weather, you're at a significantly higher risk of impact. Likewise, if you use your high beams inappropriately and blind other drivers, you're also increasing your risk of an accident.
- Speeding. The faster you drive, the less control you'll have over your vehicle. Worse yet, the force of a crash increases exponentially the faster you go. When you drive at twice the speed limit, a crash would be four times as forceful — and these forces can quickly become deadly.
- Forgetting your mirrors and blind spots. Mirrors are a feature on every car for a reason — they help you watch your blind spots and understand how other cars are moving around your vehicle. If you forget to watch your blind spots and attempt to change lanes or brake when another car is in the way, you're almost certain to cause an accident.
- Driving while exhausted. It's understandable just to want to get the drive out of the way and get home when you're exhausted after a long day at work, but driving while tired is just as bad as drunk driving. Your ability to react and pay attention is severely impaired, and unfortunately, the consequences of driving while impaired can be severe.
Driving safely is crucial. As long as you maintain good habits and keep your car properly maintained, you can significantly reduce the risk of an accident. We're happy to help you drive safely by providing any maintenance or repair services you need. If you need vehicle service, give Parker Tire & Alignment a call today!