Dangerous Driving Behaviors on the Rise
According to an annual survey conducted by AAA, dangerous driving behaviors are on the rise. From 2020-2021, actions including speeding, red-light running, drowsy driving, and driving impaired on cannabis or alcohol have increased, with 24% more drivers getting behind the wheel despite being over the legal limit to drive.
This increase is a bit surprising as these behaviors were steadily declining in the three years from 2018 through 2020. In 2021 specifically, the top three dangerous driving behaviors were:
- Speeding
- Using a cell phone while driving
- Going through red lights
Another alarming statistic from the survey was the number of drivers who drive 15 mph or more above the legal limit (50.7%). What’s more, there was almost a 10% increase in drivers getting behind the wheel despite feeling so tired it was hard to keep their eyes open. These numbers and unsafe driving habits are particularly concerning since impaired driving is a leading cause of car accidents.
Practice Safe Driving Habits
With so many drivers engaging in risky behaviors behind the wheel, it’s imperative to refresh yourself with safe driving tips. If you’re concerned about your driving habits, Flager & Associates has several resources to help you improve your skills and reduce your risk of an accident.
Stay safe on the road no matter the time of year with these seasonal safe driving tips:
- Safe Winter Driving Tips
- Safe Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers
- Safe Summer Driving Tips for Teens
- Safe Fall Driving Tips
As a Pennsylvania driver, you should be aware of the laws that help protect you and other drivers on the road, such as:
You should also know how to avoid distractions and follow these general safe driving behaviors:
- Use Navigation Apps Safely While Driving
- How to Stop Texting and Driving
- What to Do Instead of Driving Sleep Deprived
- How to Stay Alert on Long Drives
- How to Avoid Deer-Related Car Accidents
- Tips for Driving Through a PA School Zone
- Drive Carefully Around Large Trucks
When you practice safe driving behaviors, you’re not only protecting yourself, but you’re protecting everyone else on the road as well as pedestrians and bicyclists. Instead of getting behind the wheel when you’re tired or have had too much to drink, look for different options, like using rideshare apps or waiting until you recover. You should also pay attention to speed limits and avoid holding your phone, whether it’s to talk, text, email, or plug an address into your GPS.
Even if you do consider yourself a safe and responsible driver, accidents can happen. Always stay calm and follow the right steps on what to do after a car accident to ensure you’re managing the situation and can receive proper compensation if you file a claim.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident, contact the attorneys at Flager & Associates today by calling (215) 953-5200. We provide free case evaluations.
Written by Adam D. Flager, Esq., Associate at Flager & Associates, PC
With his practice focused on litigation, Adam primarily represents clients in personal injury cases, such as motor vehicle, slip and fall, defective products, and construction and worksite accidents. He is licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the State of New Jersey, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the District of New Jersey, and the United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit. Adam received his J.D. from Widener University School of Law in 2009, where he graduated with pro-Bono Distinction.
