Why Driver Obligations?
Approximately 96% of car accidents are caused by driver error, most of which are almost completely preventable. Drivers have a responsibility to do better and prioritize safety over getting to your destination as quickly as possible.
Every driver has a responsibility to keep themselves and their passengers safe. You can’t predict what other drivers will do, but you can control your own road safety.
Here are five things you have a responsibility to do as a driver.
96% of car accidents are caused by driver error, most of which are almost completely preventable
1. Get Car Insurance
You are obligated by law to have car insurance. However, how much car insurance you are required to have varies by state. The best rule of thumb with car insurance is getting enough coverage in case of an accident but not being overdrawn from high monthly insurance premiums.
However, if you get in an accident with someone who is uninsured or underinsured, you’ll wish you had more coverage to pay for damages. Paying more insurance is paying for peace of mind to cover you, your passengers, and your vehicle.
2. Obey the Speed Limit
Besides the potential speeding ticket, speeding puts your life and the lives of others at risk. Speed limits are set based on extensive research on what will be the most efficient and safest limit. Even though many drivers go five to ten miles per hour (MPH) over the speed limit, in many states, this is still considered a crime, and you can get a ticket no matter how many MPH over the speed limit you’re speeding.
Additionally, during poor weather conditions always make sure to slow down and drive defensively. Ice and excess water can lead to sliding or hydroplaning, which is difficult to control and very scary. It doesn’t matter how prepared your tires are or if you have four-wheel drive – drive safely in bad weather.
3. Pay Attention To The Road
Distracted driving is the number one cause of accidents in the United States, and it’s preventable. You have a responsibility to drive safely with your attention on the road. Of course, there will always be passengers to distract you, billboards on the side of the road, and flashing signs. However, you should always drive hands-free without texting or holding your phone.
Even if you’re doing nothing wrong, a drive in front of you might make a mistake and crash into another car. Without absolute awareness and control, you can easily bump into them, spurring a pile-up crash.
4. Buckle up
Seat belts reduce your risk of death by 45% and reduce the risk of severe injuries by 50%. You and your passengers should wear seat belts at all times when your vehicle is moving. And if you think a seat belt is uncomfortable, remember that it’s a short time compared to wearing a back or neck brace for months.
5. Drive Sober
You have a responsibility to drive sober. That means taking no alcohol or drugs before or during driving. If you do want to use substances, select a designated driver so that you can still get home safely and keep others on the road safe as well.
Conclusion
You can keep your family, passengers, and others on the road safe by driving responsibly. However, accidents still happen. If you do get into an accident, consider working with a car accident attorney to protect your rights.
