Your life: It's in Your Hands

Your Life: It's in Your Hands

Would you let a stranger take your final exam? Lead an important project proposal? Or even cook your family dinner? You probably wouldn’t; which is sensible because you don’t know the stranger’s intentions, skills, or behavior. So why would driving be any different? 

Defensive drivers are always on guard and never leave their fate in another driver's hands. Defensive drivers don’t count on other drivers to make the right and safe choices because they take initiative to prevent these accidents from occurring. Not everyone is a great driver (regardless of what your friend who always hits the curb claims), which is why it is critical to do your part in preventing accidents. 

A defensive driver has the skills to protect themselves from negligent drivers, as well as the knowledge to prevent future accidents from happening. Defensive driving skills are particularly important for young drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Administration, car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens and many can be prevented through practicing responsible driving habits. 

The advice, “Never assume that other drivers are sober or alert”(Drivers Ed.com), reiterates the defensive driving mindset. By not assuming that drivers around you are going to make safe and responsible choices, you are driving responsibility and putting your safety in your own hands. Assuming and preparing for the worst is the best way to prevent negligent accidents from occurring. 

When driving, it is crucial to look ahead and give yourself time to identify and react to potential hazards. Removing all distractions, as well as reducing your speed is the best way to practice safe and defensive driving skills.

In 2018, distracted driving accounted for 237 teen deaths on the road (National Highway Traffic Administration, 2019). Not only does distracted driving cause accidents, but it also disables the driver from being attentive, focused, and defensive. As a driver, you won't be able to focus on changing road conditions or have time to react to situations. Driving requires your full attention, therefore it is of extreme importance to put away the phone, avoid eating and eliminate all other potential distractions. 

The best way to practice these safe driving habits and learn more defensive driving techniques is through practice. Defensive driving courses teach drivers proper techniques to handle many different situations and prepare for unique and challenging situations on the roadways. Check your local area for defensive driving courses! Take your safety into your own hands and practice defensive driver habits to ensure everyone on the road stays safe.

Sources: 

DriversEd.com. “Defensive Driving Techniques.” Defensive Driving - Defensive Driving Techniques - DriversEd.com, driversed.com/driving-information/defensive-driving/defensive-driving-techniques.aspx.

“Teen Driving.” NHTSA, 12 Jan. 2021, www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/teen-driving.

Happy St. Patricks Day!

Happy St. Patrick Day! 

   Saint Patrick Day is just around the corner, will you be wearing green?

    Irish folklore tales tell of wearing green to ward off leprechauns, who would pinch everyone in sight. Next week, countries all over the world will turn green on March 17th to celebrate their Irish heritage and remember Saint Patrick, who helped bring Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century. In America, the celebration traditionally involves large parties, food, Irish drinks, and of course- lots of green and four-leaf clovers. 

 Thinking of grabbing an Irish Beer or Whiskey to celebrate? St. Patrick's Day celebrations are known for their alcohol-infused festivities, with beer and spirit sales skyrocketing each holiday. While St. Paddy’s Day is one of America’s favorite holidays, it has sadly become one of the deadliest, with a spike in drunk driving and alcohol-related crashes. In 2018, 73 people lost their lives on Saint Patrick's day, with drunk driving accidents to blame. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 38 percent of drivers killed in St. Patrick’s Day accidents had a blood-alcohol level over .08 (the legal limit). This statistic is drastically higher, considering alcohol is typically to blame for 7 percent of all crashes. The risk of being a victim of a drunk driving collision is significantly higher on March 17th in comparison to most days. 

    Preventing impaired driving is of utmost importance, as it significantly affects all parties involved. Choosing to drink and drive puts yourself and others at great risk for injury, receiving a DUI, or death. In the state of Washington, a DUI is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a Blood- Alcohol level of 0.08 or greater, a THC concentration of 5 nanograms or more per milliliter of blood, or under the influence of any other substance. The consequences of a DUI range greatly but can include large fines, license suspensions, and jail time. 

    The risk is simply not worth it, don’t rely on luck to get you home this St. Patrick's Day. If you plan on drinking or using any other controlling substance, never drive. 

With that in mind, here are some important tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe on St. Patrick’s Day:

-Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before heading out

-Call a sober friend, Uber, Taxi, or other ride-sharing services 

-Stay the night at a friend’s house or hotel

-Check out AAA and NHTSA for a list of free sober ride programs in your area

If you plan on driving sober, be on the lookout for drunk drivers. If you suspect someone of drunk driving, report it to the police immediately, but do not follow or approach the car. It is important to call law enforcement and get a good description of the vehicle without getting too close to the vehicle. 

Even the luck of the Irish can’t save you from a DUI or worse if you drink and drive. Remember to drive sober this holiday. Have a fun and safe St. Patrick's Day!