Fast Tips to Slow Down
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2018, 9,378 people were killed due to speeding. Not only is speeding dangerous, but there's a high price to pay for driving over the speed limit. A ticket may result in a large fine, missed work to go to court, and increased insurance rates. Speeding can also have long-term effects on the condition of your vehicle. We all know the dangers of speeding. What can you do to prevent it?
Relax Before Driving
Feeling anxious or angry may cause you to drive erratically. Before starting the engine, take a few deep breaths to relax.
Don't Rush
Running late is often a reason for speeding. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go. Plan accordingly for increased traffic, road construction, or detours.
Use Cruise Control
Cruise control is a good option for straight, open roads that can be tempting to speed on. Be sure to set your cruise control at a safe rate.
Drive Slightly Under the Limit
Dropping your speed by 5 mph will not significantly increase your trip. Being pulled over and getting a ticket will exponentially impact your route time.
Watch Your Speedometer
Are you a heavy-footed driver? You can help keep your speed in check by glancing frequently at the dash and adjust your pace accordingly.
Stay Alert
It's easy to fall into "auto-pilot" mode on familiar routes or when preoccupied. Always stay alert. Avoid zoning out and losing track of your speed.
Don't Drive Under the Influence
How does alcohol affect driving? A blood alcohol level of .08 can affect concentration, short-term memory loss, speed, control, reduced information processing capability (e.g., signal detection, visual search, and impaired perception. In the United States, 29 people die every day due to accidents related to drunk driving, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Drugged driving is equally as dangerous, affecting a person's driving abilities, and has become more common since the legalization of marijuana. Walk, use a designated driver, or rideshare service if you must go somewhere.
Did You Know?
A recent study from the National Transportation Safety Board concluded that speeding is just as dangerous as drunk driving in terms of the number of lives lost to car accidents caused by each factor.
According to NHTSA, approximately 70% of all fatal crashes on roadways with speed limits of 40 mph or less are in urban areas. Slightly less than half (47%) of all fatal crashes occurring on roadways with a speed limit between 45 and 50 mph are in rural areas. Over 70% of the fatal crashes on roadways with a speed limit of 55 mph or higher occur in rural areas.
Not only does speeding endanger the driver, but it also endangers other people on the road. To learn more about how BITCO can help train your drivers, contact your local Risk Control Consultant. To find a BITCO agent near you, click the button below.
For information purposes only. BITCO's blog content does not address all potential circumstances and is not a substitute for business, safety, or legal consultation.
