3 Dangers Of Driving To Be Cognizant Of Before Your Next Road Trip

Summer is finally here and that means one thing; vacation! Thousands of families will pack up the car in the coming months and head out to various hotspots across the nation.  Like with any other mode of transportation, you take on a certain amount of risk when you are driving. Here are some dangers you need to be aware of before getting on the road this summer.

Alcohol

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This one should go without saying, but we will mention it anyway.  The dangers of alcohol behind the wheel exceed all other hazards.. Never get behind the wheel of a car after consuming too much alcohol. The federal government is currently encouraging states to drop the legal blood alcohol content level from .08 to .05, so it is best to not drink at all and avoid serious harm. A majority of alcohol related accidents happen between 6pm and 6am, so be especially careful when driving late at night.

Cell Phones

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Let’s preface this section by acknowledging that cellphones are a fantastic technology.  They have advanced our society in ways that previous generations never would have imagined. Our ability to connect and interact has never been greater, but there should also be some limitations on when to use them. Driving, for example is a place where cell phone users should consider putting the phone down. Managing the road is already dangerous itself but when a cell phone enters the mix those dangers increase exponentially. It also doesn’t matter if it is a handheld or hands-free device, studies show that the distraction is common in both. The University of Utah found that cell phone in a car impairs a person’s ability to drive as much as alcohol. Make sure to hang up and put that phone away before getting in the car.

Fatigue

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Falling asleep in a car is a surefire way to get in an accident. Never get behind the wheel if you aren’t well rested. Here are some causes that can factor into fatigue.

• lack of quality sleep
  
• late afternoon and late night driving
  
• driving for a long period of time
  
• sleeping disorders
  

You shouldn’t try to combat fatigue with energy drinks and coffee.  The best way to beat it is to rest.  Plan your drives in intervals where you can share the responsibility behind the wheel, and don’t try to make the drive all at once. If you are by yourself and getting tired, pull over and take a nap.  You may lose an hour or two on your trip but it is better than losing your life.
While national statistics surrounding car accidents and fatalities have decreased, driving still remains our most dangerous recreational activity. It is important to be cognizant of the distractions you might face while driving this summer. Remember that these risks do not only apply to you, every driver on the road may be abusing their driving privilege. Do not fall victim to these dangers this summer. As long as you’re driving safely, lit is less likely that you’ll become another statistic.


WT Johnson is a personal injury attorney at the Law Office of WT Johnson in Dallas, Texas. He specializes in boating, car, and motorcycle accidents. Mr. Johnson's firm has been practicing for over 20 years.