In 2018, it was estimated that around 40,000 people lost their lives because of car accidents with around 4.5 million injured. Even though the mortality rate from car accidents is  on a downward trend, 40,000 lives lost is still way to high.

Road safety has always been an important topic as people’s lives are on the line. With the number of people hurt in car accidents last year, it means that every 7 seconds someone is getting injured in a car crash.

The president and CEO of the National Safety Council found this unacceptable. Nicholas Smith said:

‘’We can’t afford to tread on the water anymore. We know what works, but we need to demonstrate the commitment to implementing solutions. Roadway deaths are preventable by doubling down on what works, embracing technological advancements, and creating a culture of safer driving.”

The thought of being involved in a car accident alone is scary and it surely is an experience that some people won’t forget. It’s always best to know what to do to prevent accidents from happening. Whether you’re the driver, the passenger, or someone who is on the road, here are five tips that you can always keep in mind and do to avoid car accidents.

Always have at least one hand on the steering wheel

This may sound like a simple thing to do but accidents caused by the steering wheel can be really serious. As much as possible, always keep at least one hand free when you’re driving. This is to be sure that you never let go of your steering wheel.

Just think of how it’s sometimes necessary to use two hands for you to take a turn. Sometimes, this could happen out of the blue if you need to avoid road obstructions and what you don’t want to happen is to not make that needed turn.

Avoid using your phone while driving

Never text and answer a phone call without a Bluetooth device on. This is related to the first tip as using your phone while driving is a reason why you might leave your steering wheel alone. While it may be common sense to not do that, some people unconsciously get their hands off the wheel when they’re on the phone.

This is why many accidents are caused by drivers who are on their phones. If in case you can answer your phone hands-free, just make sure that you are still looking at the road. Remember that it sometimes only takes a few seconds for you to miss a thing that could cause an accident.

Know the Importance of Engine Maintenance

Engine malfunction can also be a serious problem. Always schedule your vehicle’s maintenance. You can do this on your own if you know your way around vehicles but it’s still best to have mechanics or professionals check your car and engine every once in a while.

This is to avoid malfunctions that can cause major accidents like brake problems that are sometimes the causes of rollovers. You should also check if your airbags are in-tact and if your car has any electrical issues as those could very much help you remain safe as a driver.

Don’t drink and drive

Drinking under the influence is a serious offense for a reason. It is estimated that at least 30 people in the United States alone die because of drunk-driving. Drunk-driving takes around 10,000 lives each year and this is something that should motivate you to never drink and drive.

Know that in the US, drivers that are 21 years old and above should never drive with a Blood Alcohol Concentration BAC level of 0.08 percent and beyond. Minors or drivers under the age of 21 should also not have a BAC level of 0.02 percent and above. Driving with those BAC levels are considered illegal and can rightfully put you to prison once caught.

Be courteous and patient while you’re on the road

Traffic can be stressful at times and as much as possible, you should always remain calm. Know when you to give way and to remain patient to avoid accidents like the ones that would involve other vehicles. A positive and peaceful attitude can help make sure that your drive will go as smooth as it should be.

Avoid picking fights with other drivers too as this could just affect your overall mood while driving. Stress can make you become impulsive and that is something that you don’t really want as you drive home or on your way to work.