How to Be a Safe Motorist on the Road

According to the most recent estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities increased 10.5% from 2020 to 2021. An estimated 42,915 people lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident in 2021—a 16-year high. What’s more, motorcyclist fatalities increased 9% in this same time period.

Being a safe motorist on the road is crucial for your well-being and the safety of others. By adopting responsible driving habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

5 Tips to Stay Safe on the Road

Here are a few tips to help you drive safely:

1. Drive defensively—Stay alert and maintain constant awareness of your surroundings. Anticipate the actions of other drivers and be prepared to react quickly. Keep a safe following distance and avoid tailgating to allow for sufficient braking distance.

2. Avoid distracted driving—Don’t use your cell phone while driving, as it diverts your attention from the road. Refrain from engaging in activities such as eating, grooming or adjusting the radio while behind the wheel of a car. Pull over to a safe location to handle any distractions.

3. Maintain your vehicle—Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth for optimal traction. Check your brakes regularly and have them serviced if necessary. Keep your headlights, taillights and turn signals in working order to enhance visibility. Refer to your car’s manual for information regarding maintenance best practices.

4. Share the road—Be courteous to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. Yield right-of-way when necessary and use turn signals to communicate your intentions. When passing cyclists or motorcycles, allow sufficient space to ensure their safety.

5. Watch the weather—It’s best to avoid driving during severe weather when possible. If you drive a motorcycle, check the weather forecast to ensure you can get back home from your destination safely.

Safe driving can help save lives and decrease the chances of being involved in an accident. Yet, accidents may still occur, so it’s crucial to have the right types and amounts of car or motorcycle insurance. Arizona drivers must prove financial responsibility when driving a vehicle or motorcycle. Maintaining liability insurance coverage that meets Arizona’s minimum requirements can help provide financial protection from your liability for third-party bodily injuries and property damage in an accident.

Contact Us

Contact Above All Insurance in Phoenix, Arizona, to review your car insurance coverage and get a personalized quote for appropriate coverage.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.