Many road users develop bad driving habits, whether they realize it or not. This often includes texting while driving, speeding, or ignoring traffic signals. However, these habits can have fatal consequences, even for the smallest infraction.
The Ohio car accident attorneys at Gervelis Law Firm are committed to holding negligence drivers accountable when they cause someone’s injury or death. If you sustained an injury or lost a loved one in an Ohio crash, we can help you seek the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
What are the consequences of risky driving habits?
Crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows 3,522 deaths from distracted driving across the U.S. in 2021.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety's 2022 Traffic Culture Index revealed over half of 2,499 participants admitted to risky driving. This included:
- Speeding (22.7%)
- Aggressive and distracted driving (17.3%)
- Impaired driving (1.3%)
- All risky driving behaviors (2.4%)
How can motorists prevent risky driving behaviors?
Preventing bad habits is key. Arnie Kinsler, a AAA Driving School instructor, emphasizes following road rules to his students. He advises ignoring impatient drivers and driving at speed limits for safety.
For experienced drivers, vigilance is crucial to avoid developing risky driving habits. AAA's Defensive Driving Course is an option for motorists who want to improve their driving skills.
Instructor Gary Driscoll, a former police officer, stresses the importance of understanding regulations and situational awareness.
“One of the best ways to instill good driving habits is to explain why a regulation is important and what can happen if you don’t follow it,” said Driscoll.
Common risky driving behaviors and how to fix them
Some of the most common risky driving behaviors identified in AAA’s survey include:
- Distracted driving: This is a major driving risk, with over half of participants admitting to it in the AAA survey. Common distractions include texting, talking, eating, or even shooting videos for social media while driving. To prevent this, Barbara Ward, a traffic safety specialist, suggests putting phones on “do not disturb.”
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and has severe legal consequences. Impaired driving caused 13,384 traffic fatalities across the U.S. in 2021, according to the NHTSA. To avoid this, AAA suggests designating a sober driver or using a rideshare service or taxi.
- Drowsy driving: About 18% of survey participants admitted to drowsy driving within the past 30 days. To avoid drowsy driving, AAA recommends taking breaks every two hours or 100 miles. Drowsy drivers should also pull over and let someone else drive.
- Speeding: Speeding was a factor in 12,330 traffic fatalities in 2021. Drivers who speed have less time and distance to stop to avoid a collision. Motorists should practice awareness and control when it comes to speed. Using cruise control helps maintain a safe speed.
- Aggressive driving: This is often linked to road rage. It includes tailgating, illegal passing, cutting off other drivers, and other risky driving behaviors. Staying calm, driving at the speed limit, and avoiding retaliation are key. Always avoid eye contact with an angry driver. If you feel that you’re in danger, call 911 or drive to the nearest police station.
Injured in a car accident? Our rapid investigation team is ready to help
There’s no excuse for risky driving behaviors. If the actions of a negligent driver caused your injury or a loved one’s death, the attorneys at Gervelis Law Firm can protect your rights. Our law firm conducts thorough investigations to pinpoint the responsible party and cause of your crash. In the aftermath of an accident, our Rapid Investigation Team can be on site within 24 hours to gather and preserve evidence that may be critical to your potential claim.
We also fight to secure maximum compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Schedule a free case evaluation with our legal team. We’ll be glad to answer any questions you have and help you explore your legal options. You can contact us online or call our law offices in Youngstown, Akron, Toledo, Columbus, Canfield, or Warren.