Driving is one of the most hazardous activities undertaken on a daily basis by the majority of the population. On average, there are upwards of 17,000 auto accidents per day on the road, leading to approximately 120 deaths every single day. These accidents are caused by a variety of factors, including weather conditions, vehicle malfunctions, and human errors.
Millions of drivers navigate the roads and highways with ease, showcasing their ability to adapt and react quickly to the many hazards present on the roads; their expert navigation skills and quick reactions are a testament to their resilience in the face of potential dangers, others aren’t quite as safe on the roads.
But what exactly do you need to look out for, especially on long journeys or roads you have never driven before, to ensure your safety at all times?
Trucks
There are millions of trucks on the roads every day, and truck drivers, while trained to be in total control of their vehicles, can often find themselves more at risk of accidents than other road users. This is primarily because they, by default, spend more time on the road, but mostly due to the size of the vehicle they drive and their inability to stop or maneuver as smaller vehicles can.
Trucks have many blind spots, and this can make overtaking more difficult because they are higher on the roads; this means the driver might not be aware of those driving too close to them in front or behind, increasing the risks of accidents should they need to accelerate or stop suddenly as per traffic conditions. For all road users, being aware of truck drivers and paying more attention to their needs on the road means you can limit the risk of accidents; however, a truck accident lawyer can help you out if you find yourself involved in a collision with a truck.
Bikers
Being on two wheels means bikers can navigate traffic more easily than other vehicles. They can nip in and out of traffic and be flexible with where they drive and how they position themselves in traffic.
However, this can be a blessing and a curse, as other drivers might not be fully aware of their presence at all times, especially for motorbikes traveling at speed or being in precarious positions on the road.
Always check your mirrors and be aware of motorbikes on your journey. If you expect motorbikes to be in your vicinity, you can adapt your driving habits and actions to accommodate them even if there aren’t any around you. The more prepared you are for bikers on the road, the safer you can make the roads for them and yourself.
Extreme Weather
Approximately 21% of all road accidents are caused by the weather. This can be down to the glaring winter sun blinding you and reducing your visibility. It can be extreme winds causing you to career off the road at high speeds, aquaplaning on wet surfaces, losing traction on icy roads, or anything else.
This risk increases on longer journeys or to places you’re unfamiliar with, as you won’t have experience with the local weather conditions or be able to expect extreme weather until you come across it. Checking the weather conditions so you know what to expect, driving appropriately for the weather you’re expecting to face, and taking your time can all help you pass through extreme weather. Additionally, if you encounter sudden weather changes, such as a sudden downpour, reduce your speed, turn on your headlights, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Other Road Users
Lastly, other road users are one of the biggest road hazards on long journeys. While you might be confident in your driving abilities, it’s crucial to remember that the same can’t and shouldn’t apply to other road users. Being aware of your surroundings and other road users, and practicing defensive driving, is not just for your safety, but also for the safety of those around you.
With this in mind, being aware of your surroundings, other road users, and traffic and practicing defensive driving can help you stay safe and prevent bad or dangerous driving from those around you. Defensive driving is a set of driving techniques that can help you avoid accidents by anticipating dangerous situations and adjusting your driving accordingly.
For example, leaving enough room between your car and the car in front of you, using your mirrors and turn signals, not speeding, and staying alert (no using devices or eating or drinking, etc) when hitting the road during busy periods or complex junctions or hard-to-navigate pieces or road are all examples of defensive driving techniques.