Driver behavior contributes
to 94 out of every 100 traffic crashes in the U.S. according to the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Research tells us that an
important first step toward changing a risky behavior is to begin to think
actively about the need to change the behavior.
The theme for 2016 is “Drowsy,
Distracted or Focused—Your Decisions Drive Your Safety.” We are calling on
drivers to take a hard look at what they do behind the wheel (or before getting
behind the wheel) that could be increasing their risk of a crash, starting with
the importance of being well-rested. Then, buckle up and put away the
distractions. And finally, focus on the complex task at hand. Safe driving,
all!
October is the busiest month for vehicle-wildlife collisions in
Oregon. With deer and elk on the move due to breeding season and migration to
winter ranges, more wildlife are crossing roads all over the state. ODOT urges
motorists to be on alert and be ready to slow down. Signs placed in
particularly popular areas for wildlife crossing are one tool to help drivers
avoid collisions.
Being especially watchful around sunrise and sunset can help
reduce vehicle-wildlife incidents. When you see an animal near or on the
roadway, reduce your speed and try to stay in your lane. Many serious crashes
are the result of drivers swerving to avoid wildlife or other obstacles and
they crash into another vehicle or lose control of their own vehicle. And always
wear your safety belt, as even the slightest collision could result in serious
injuries.
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for American
teens — ahead of all other types of injury, disease, or violence. In 2014
alone, there were 2,679 teen (15-19 years old) drivers in cars, trucks, and
SUVs involved in fatal traffic crashes and an estimated 123,000 teen drivers
were injured.
Parents need to take the time to talk with their kids about the
many dangers of driving. Those dangers include alcohol, lack of seat belt use,
distracted driving, speeding, and extra passengers. These dangers are covered
in the “5 to Drive” rules of the road.
Halloween is meant to be scary, but not when it comes to driving. When
it comes to drunk or drugged driving, Halloween can turn the roads into a
horror fest. Plan a safe way home now, before the festivities! Find a designated
driver or someone to call for a ride — a family member or taxi company, for
example — or make plans to ride public transit. You can dress up like Jack the
Ripper for Halloween, but don’t be a real killer. Whatever you do, don’t drive
impaired.
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