Being on the road is dangerous. In fact, the World Health Organization reported that around 1.3 million people die yearly due to road-related traffic crashes.
Knowing this, it would be wise to take every precaution while on the road, from the simple act of fastening your seatbelt to getting non-owner sr22 insurance.
Minimize Any and All Possible Distractions
The most straightforward way to focus on the road is to eliminate distractions, but it is often overlooked by many.
In a survey conducted by the National Safety Council in 2016, it was revealed that more than 3,400 drivers use their cellphones while driving. They were either on a call, texting, emailing, or even watching a movie.
Then in 2018, it was reported by the CDC that 2,800 people were killed because of distracted driving, and more than 400,000 were injured.
A lot of this could have been avoided if the driver simply put their phone away and focused on driving. It’s a seemingly small thing to do but it makes a world of a difference.
To minimize distractions while you’re on the road, you should:
- Keep the radio at a reasonable volume
- Pullover if you must return a message or call
- Pullover if you need to attend to an infant or child in the backseat
- Ask someone to drive you if you’re drowsy or opt to sleep first before driving
- Limit the passenger and activity in the car
Get the Apt Insurance Coverage – Regular, Non-Owner SR22, and the Like
Getting insurance coverage is always a good idea, regardless if you own a car or not. It doesn’t just protect the vehicle but you, your family, your passengers, and other drivers as well.
You can breathe a little easier knowing that you will be compensated if you get into an accident caused by someone else. Similarly, you can also pay compensation for an accident you have caused.
For those who drive frequently but do not own a car, you can opt for non-owner SR22. This type of insurance is for those who:
- Regularly borrow cars from family or friends
- Regularly rent cars
- Sold their vehicle
- Won’t be using their car for a long time (e.g. getting deployed overseas)
Review the Route Before the Journey Starts
Nowadays, most people rely on technology, like Waze and Google Maps, to navigate. It’s convenient and more effective than the traditional map, but there are times when the app lags at the most inconvenient places.
Before heading out, make it a habit to plan the drive or at least see the overview route, especially if it’s unfamiliar. Making yourself generally aware will help you focus more on driving and panic less when the app fails you.
Maintain The Vehicle
Mechanical and equipment failure is one of the leading causes of road-related accidents. However, even then, the car is not to blame.
It is the responsibility of the owner or driver to keep the car in good condition. This involves:
- Getting the car periodically checked
- Making sure that the engine, breaks, seat belts, headlights, tires, steering wheel, fog lights, and wipers are all working properly
- Inspecting the tires and replacing them if needed
- Checking and changing the oil routinely
- Checking the fluids including the coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and transmission fluid
- Testing the lights
- Replacing windshield wipers when the blades are damaged or worn
- Changing the engine air filter
Have The Right Attitude
Being patient, alert, and tactful—these are all traits that a responsible driver possesses. You need to be able to keep a level head and your wits if something happens to avoid incidents.
If you find that someone is being aggressive to you on the road, it would be wise to ignore them and keep yourself from doing the same thing.
It might also help you to stay calm to think of other people’s safety. By other people, this could be your passengers, other drivers and their passengers, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Honking, screaming, and flashing high beams may be incredibly aggravating or anxiety-inducing, and that is valid. When this happens, it may be best to pull over and collect yourself.
Lastly, be incredibly mindful if you are in a foreign place or country. You never know when something as small as a hand gesture can be misinterpreted.
Stay Safe and Enjoy The Ride
Hopefully, this guide has enlightened you in what it means to be a more responsible driver. Whether it’s just a 20-minute drive or you’re out for an inter-state road trip, have happy and safe travels!
