These days there are more cars on the road than ever before. Traffic is heavier, and drive times are getting longer, causing more frustration and road rage than ever before.
The most common car crash in all of Australia as the nose-to-tail, or being rear-ended. When driving too closely behind someone, you lose your ability to react quickly enough should they stop suddenly. If speed is also involved then fatalities from this type of accident are not uncommon, despite many believing it to be ‘minor’. In these type of accidents the crash is deemed your fault even if the driver ahead stopped for nothing. A good rule of thumb to make sure you’re following at a safe distance is the three second rule. Chose an object (such as traffic lights, a mailbox etc) and if you count three seconds between when the driver in front passes it and you pass it, then you are likely placing a safe distance between you and the other car.
Speed is also a massive factor in car accidents. A NSW investigation found that in a twelve month period, speed was a factor in 145 of 225 deaths from car accidents. As well as preventing you being in an accident at all by slowing down, reducing your speed also minimises your risk of serious injury or death if you are still involved in an car crash.
Tiredness is also a major factor in car accidents. In the same NSW study, fatigue and alcohol were involved in 61 of the 225 deaths. Never drive tired, and get a good night’s sleep when you know you have a long drive the next day. If you do become tired while driving, pull over and have a nap. Many people underestimate the ability of a short nap to revive yourself. Leaving your car to walk around and stretch your legs, or grabbing a cup of tea or coffee can also help you avoid fatigue related accidents.
Lastly, many studies clearly show drug and alcohol use to be a major factor in car accidents. Never drive under the influence. Even a small amount can impair your judgement, and so use caution when deciding if you are over the legal limit of 0.05 blood alcohol concentration. Do not drive if you have taken any illegal drugs at all, and check the recommendations on prescription drugs before getting behind the wheel.