Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility. Accordingly, it’s important to know what steps you can take to prevent an accident from occurring in Texas. Consumer Reports offers advice on how to mitigate your risk of accident when on the road, thereby preserving the safety of yourself and other drivers.
Maintain a Safe Speed
Many serious accidents involve motorists driving in excess of the posted speed limits. These limits are imposed to protect everyone who shares the road and ignoring them can imperil your safety as well as that of other drivers. Maintaining a safe speed is especially important at night, when your visibility may be decreased.
Refrain From Driving While Distracted
Distracted driving is a serious problem these days. Many motorists fail to see the danger in texting and driving or partaking in other problematic behaviors. In fact, distracted driving is considered to be as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol and can cause numerous accidents as a result. When behind the wheel make sure your full attention is being paid to the task at hand, which entails keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times.
Choose the Right Vehicle
The type of care you choose can also have an impact on your safety (as well as the safety of others). Proper maintenance is essential in this respect, as a car that’s prone to breaking down can be a danger on the road. You should also consider what safety features are included; electronic stability control helps detect the loss of traction when driving and even takes steps to correct it. Other helpful safety features include blind spot cameras and lane-departure warning signals.