Recently my mom was in a car accident because someone thought they needed to take a left turn so urgently that they pulled out right in front of her, basically causing her to t-bone him. If it wasn't for her seat belt and the airbag, she more than likely would've gone through the windshield, and who knows what would've happened to her. Luckily, she was fine. She ended up with a bruise on her nose from the airbag, and a bruise on her hip from the seat belt, and obviously some soreness for the next few days. (The cover photo is the photo the Sun Journal-my local paper- got of my mom's accident. This is the article they did as well.)
Meanwhile, the other guy was basically laughing it off. He didn't have insurance, which is illegal, and he's a known drug dealer in the area. So while my mom is without a car for a few weeks while they figure out what to do next, he's off just going back to his normal life (Well, except for the few hundred dollar fine he got) as if he didn't do anything wrong.
In hopes of keeping the roads safe for everyone, I want to offer you some tips on how and why you should be a safe and responsible driver. Let's face it, there are times where we all let our guard down or don't quite do things that are safe. I am even guilty of this a few times, but after this accident, it reminded me that anything can happen and I need to do my part to help ensure not only my safety but the safety of others as well.
Here is why you should be a safe driver:
1. Safety
Obviously, the main reason why to be a safe driver is safety. Traffic accidents put so many people's lives in danger. In fact, car accidents is one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United Sates. Even smaller accidents that don't leave anyone with injuries can leave people with some serious financial troubles. My step-dad's car was hit by someone backing out. It left a small dent and some scratches, the other cars red paint scraping off onto his silver car. The cost to fix it, $1,200 dollars. Now imagine something a little bigger than that and what it would cost. If you're not paying attention your putting yourself and other drivers in harms way, as well as pedestrians and other people using the roads such as cyclists.
2. Being a Good Example for Others
If you're driving safely, you encourage other people to drive safely. Especially when it comes to teenagers. I remember as I got closer to getting my licence as my parents teaching me how to drive. They paid close attention and taught me all the little details on how to be a good driver, and I continue to follow them. You have to remember, that those watching you drive, are more than likely going to copy. If my parents weren't safe drivers, I might not be either. Sure I had drivers education and learned about safety, but you sometimes learn more from watching others. Set a good example for your kids or other young passengers in your car on how to be a safe driver.
3. Saving Money
I've had my licence for a few years now and because I am a good driver and have no gotten any tickets or been in any accidents, my car insurance recently went down. It may not be too much, but that's now extra money in my pocket which I think is pretty awesome. If I keep up my safe driving when I reach 25 and the big drop happens, I can't wait to see how much more I will save. I work hard for my money and any way I can save a little extra is nice, but something about saving because I'm a safe driver means a lot to me. The last part is gas. When you're not zooming around and actually driving correctly, you're not burning as much gas, which in turn saves you some money as well.
I believe those are a 3 main reasons why you should be safe driver. Keep yourself and others safe, setting a good example, and saving money. Although I'm sure there are some more good reasons out there on why being safe can help you.
Now, here a few tips on how to be safe driver:
1. Don't Trust Other Drivers
Sometimes we all expect that other people are paying as much attention as we are, but that's not always the case. You should always assume other drivers are paying less attention than you are. We've all had those small scares; going to change lanes, but having to swerve back because we didn't see that car in our blind spot, and other small things. Driving takes a lot of work, as there are so many different things you need to be paying attention to at once. So be sure to take your time and pay close attention to others.
2. Intersections
You see a green light, so you go right? Well, yes, you do go, but still be aware. We assume that because our light is green, that everyone else has come to a stop as well because their lights are red. Going back to the first point, always assume they aren't paying as close attention. I've seen plenty of people run red lights, whether it be because they're distracted, or were rushing to get through the yellow yet, it happens. So despite your green light, keep your eyes open and be alert.
3. Mindful of Surroundings (Get Rid Of Distractions)
In the past week alone I've seen about 5 people on their phones. One sat through and entire green light because they were texting, one actually ran a red light, one almost rear ended me, and the other two are just driving along, their heads going up and down as they text. Driving is already dangerous enough as it is, please don't add the distraction of your phone, eating, etc. Sometimes, all it takes is having your eyes off the road for even a moment for something to happen. Don't drive distracted. Keep your focus on the road, and what's going on around you. You have pedestrians out there, cyclist, people on motorcycles, etc.
4. Buckle Up
This has to be one of the easiest things. Put your seat belt on, it could save your life. Drivers, always make sure your passengers buckle up as well. As I said in the beginning, if my mom hadn't worn her seat belt, she more than likely would've gone through her windshield.
5. Patience
I know it's easy to get frustrated with other drivers at times, but just try to remember to have a little patience. I am always so nervous when someone is riding right up behind me, because if something happens, and I need to brake suddenly, they're going right into me. Once again referring back to my moms accident, had the guy waited just a moment longer for her to pass before speeding out to make his turn, everyone would've be fine. Take your time. It's better to get to your destination in one piece than not make it there at all.
6. Blinkers
I can't even begin to explain how much hatred I hold for people who don't use blinkers. Is it really that hard to flip a switch? You know where you're going, but other drivers don't. Please, be mindful of other drivers and use your blinker. Even if you're simply changing lanes, let them know you're coming over. I use mine even if no one is really around. There are a lot of people on the road who want to get to where they're going safely, so do what you can to help them do so.
I really hope this helps someone. It's scary how many accidents happen over just small incidents. It takes some work, but it's easy to be a safe driver. Pay close attention, and be mindful of what's around you. Keep yourself and others safe.