1.Driving While Distracted

 

Distracted driving was a leading cause of accidents in Texas in 2022, accounting for nearly 95,777 occurrences. Distractions can be anything that diverts your focus away from the road, such as talking on the phone, eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio.

 

“The biggest blunder drivers make is taking their focus off the road,” said Patrick Mileham, DriveSafe Online’s director of editorial development. “Many drivers consider themselves to be able to multitask while driving, but the truth is that anything that takes your attention away from the road can be dangerous.”

 

2.Speeding

 

Another typical error made by Texas drivers is speeding. Speeding was a component in over 162,000 crashes in the state in 2022. Speeding can worsen an accident and shorten the duration of time you need to respond to unexpected situations.

 

3.Inability to Yield

 

Another typical error made by Texas drivers is failure to yield. When a driver fails to yield to a pedestrian or another vehicle with the right of way, this can happen. In Texas, failure to yield was a contributory factor in approximately 97133 crashes in 2022.

 

“Drivers who fail to yield are not only violating the law, but they’re additionally putting themselves and others at risk,” Mileham added. “Many drivers don’t realize that failure to yield is an unsafe driving trait that can lead to serious collisions and injuries.”

 

4.Driving While Intoxicated

 

Driving under the influence is a severe crime in Texas and is a major cause of accidents. Driving under the influence was responsible for over 1163 people being killed in 2022.

 

“Impaired driving is one of the most disastrous mistakes a driver can make,” Mileham said. “Drinking slows reaction time, reduces vision, and impairs overall judgment.” “All of these side effects are very dangerous when driving.”

 

5.Failure to Wear a Seatbelt

 

Another typical error made by Texas drivers is failing to wear a seatbelt. 

 

Seatbelts are one of the most efficient car safety equipment. Even if the collision is mild, failing to wear a seatbelt increases the chance of catastrophic injury or death.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Stay Safe on Texas Roads

When you’re behind the wheel, your top priority should always be safety. It’s even more important for Texans given the vast network of roads that crisscross the Lone Star State. This part of the article is a one-stop shop for all you need to know about driving safely in Texas. Let’s get straight into it!

 

Before we go any further, keep in mind that road safety is more than simply a set of rules—it’s a culture and a mindset. It is all about being alert, understanding the hazards, and taking the required safeguards.

 

Improve Your Driving Skills

 

The foundation of road safety is defensive driving. It is more about predicting potential threats than simply reacting to them. Here are some defensive driving tips:

 

1. Anticipate rather than react to other drivers. Prepare for their behaviors.

 

2. Maintain a Safe gap—Keep a safe gap between yourself and the car in front of you. The three-second rule is an excellent starting point.

 

3. Maintain Concentration—Avoid distractions such as cell phones and loud music.

 

4. Observe—Make frequent use of mirrors to keep yourself conscious of your surroundings.

 

5. Follow Traffic Rules—Slow down, indicate your turns, and obey traffic signals.

 

Arm Yourself with Information

 

It is critical to understand the regulations of the road. Make yourself familiar with Texas traffic laws and regulations. To discourage unsafe driving habits, be aware of the penalty for offenses.

 

Keep Your Vehicle in Good Condition

 

Vehicle maintenance is critical to guaranteeing road safety. Routine maintenance, which includes anything from tire inflation checks and oil changes to brake tests and light checks, can help you avoid frequent road hazards.

 

Understanding the Texas Highway System

 

Texas has a large road system. It is critical to understand the various types of roadways and their unique safety needs.

 

Highways

Texas features some of the country’s busiest highways. Driving at high speeds necessitates precision, concentration, and patience.

 

1. Respect Speed Limits—Speed limits are in place for a purpose. Keep to them.

 

1. Indicators should be used—always indicate before changing lanes.

 

1. Avoid tailgating by keeping a safe trailing distance from vehicles in front of you.

Rural Roads

Texas rural roads present unique hazards, such as unmarked crossroads and wildlife crossings.

 

1. Slow down—rural roads are frequently narrow and winding. Drive slowly and expect sharp curves.

 

1. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially at dawn and twilight.

 

1. Be Prepared—In rural locations, cell reception and roadside assistance may be limited. Always keep a roadside emergency kit on hand.

 

Streets in the City

 

Navigating metropolitan streets necessitates a different set of abilities. Traffic, pedestrians, and bicycles all add to the complication of city driving.

 

1. Respect Traffic Signals—Never disregard traffic signals or signage.

 

1. Yield to Pedestrians—At crosswalks, always yield to pedestrians.

 

1. Watch for Cyclists—Before turning or changing lanes, check your mirrors and blind spots for cyclists.

 

Managing the Weather in Texas

Texas is well-known for its various weather patterns. Understanding how to drive in various weather conditions can mean the difference between life and death.

Driving in the Rain

Driving in the rain can be dangerous owing to decreased visibility and slick roadways.

1. Slowing down minimises the likelihood of hydroplaning.
2. Turn on your headlights to improve visibility for other drivers.
3. Avoid Sudden Movements—Vehicle skidding can be caused by abrupt braking or turning.

Driving in the Fog

Fog can significantly reduce your vision on the road.

1. Use Low Beam Lights—High beams reflect off the fog and reduce vision even more.
2. Maintain a Safe Distance—Leave enough distance between yourself and the car in front of you.
3. When visibility is low, use roadside reflectors to guide you.

Driving in the Heat

Vehicle failures and tire blowouts are common in Texas due to the extreme heat.

1. Check Your Tires—To avoid blowouts, make sure your tires are properly inflated.
2. Keep Water in Your Car—To minimise dehydration, keep water in your car.
3. Check for Children and Pets—Never leave children or pets in a hot car unattended.

Managing Roadside Emergencies

Road accidents can happen no matter how cautious you are. It is critical to understand how to deal with them.

Breakdowns

In the event of a failure:

1. Pull Over Safely—If feasible, get your car off the road.
2. Use Hazard Lights—In order to inform other cars, turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call for Assistance—Make contact with a roadside assistance provider.

Accidents

In the event of an accident:

1. Stay Calm—Panicking can exacerbate the problem.
2. Injuries—Inspect yourself and others for injuries, incase on any injury contact Superior Chiropractic & Accident Recovery Services in Texas | Accident Centers of Texas
3. Call 911 and report the accident to the authorities.

Conclusion

Remember that everyone who drives in Texas is responsible for keeping the roads safe for everyone. We can make Texas a safer place by prioritising safety, arming ourselves with knowledge, understanding the road system, dealing with inclement weather, and being prepared for emergencies. After all, arriving safely is more essential than arriving at all. So, let us continue to prioritise road safety and make Texas a safer place for everyone. Travel with caution!