Sitting behind the wheel of a vehicle may seem to be a routine event but can also be the most dangerous event of your life. Although you cannot control the actions of other drivers, you can control your actions and how you operate your own vehicle.

Distractions

Any distractions that take drivers’ eyes off the road should always be avoided. Drivers should not smoke while driving. In crash reports involving at least 1 fatality, 1% cited smoking. One in 10 crashes involves distracted drivers. Other distractions include talking on cell phones, having moving objects (dogs) in vehicles, adjusting radios or heat/air conditioning and eating/drinking while driving. In 2012, 3,328 persons were involved in fatal crashes where the driver was distracted.

5 Common Mistakes Behind The Wheel That Can Prove Fatal For Drivers

Driving Under the Influence

Drivers should not drive drunk or high. Even over-the-counter cold medications can alter response time. Drivers should not drive even if slightly under the influence of any substance. It is estimated by NHTSA that 28 people die in drunk driving accidents every day.

Driving in Inclement Weather

Drivers should be cautious in inclement weather. When roads are wet, breaking times increase. Drivers should never use cruise control and should slow down in snowy weather. Also be sure to never slam on the brakes when driving in icy/snowy conditions. It may be helpful to invest in snow tires if you live in an area that warrants them. On average, 6,250 people are killed in weather-related crashes each year.

Being a Young Driver

Young drivers generally take time to develop the knowledge, skills, and behavior necessary to operate a motor vehicle. Judgment and understanding require more practice. They have more difficulty maintaining attention. Their ability to judge distance also can be challenging. Teen drivers tend to also drive faster and more aggressively, which is the reason for their auto-insurance rates to be so high. According to information from this Las Vegas car accident attorney, 21% of 2014 auto-accident collisions in Las Vegas attributed from excessive speed.

Defective Tires

Drivers should ensure that tires are properly inflated. They should not be bald, under-inflated or over-inflated. Under-inflated tires are the most frequent reason for vehicle fatalities due to defective tires. Bald, uneven or worn-out tires are serious as well. A blowout can cause a momentary loss of control that could prove fatal.

In order to reduce chances of being injured, keep these precautions in mind. Every time you get behind the wheel, your life as well as the others on the road is always at stake. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your safety.