Discover tips to be a safer driver and avoid car accidents.
Many drivers have bad habits that increase the likelihood of being involved in a serious car accident. Whether it’s driving too fast or looking at a cellphone while driving, these bad habits can be very dangerous.
That’s why AAA recently encouraged drivers to make a change this year and break those bad driving habits. Such “habits may be universal, but they are not irreversible. Just a few adjustments can change your behavior,” AAA says.
So, what are some of the most dangerous driving habits? Do South Carolina drivers have the same bad habits? And what can drivers do to fix these bad habits? Our South Carolina car accident attorneys at Johnson + Johnson Attorneys At Law in Lexington, SC explain.
What are the most common dangerous driving habits?
Every year, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducts a study focusing on some of the worst driving habits on the road. Recently, the foundation released the results of its “2022 Traffic Safety Culture Index.”
The study is based on anonymous responses from 2,500 drivers nationwide. As part of the study, researchers asked if drivers have engaged in some of the most dangerous driving habits within the past 30 days. Results of the survey revealed that:
- 8 percent did not stop at a red light at least once.
- 7 percent drove at least 15 mph over the speed limit on a highway or 10 mph faster on a city street.
- 9 percent were so tired when driving they could barely keep their eyes open.
- 3 percent confessed to being self-described “aggressive drivers.”
- 15 percent drove while distracted, which can include texting while driving.
- 3 percent drove while under the influence of alcohol.
Do South Carolina drivers have the same bad habits?
Unfortunately, drivers in South Carolina have many of the same bad habits as drivers in other parts of the country. In 2021, drivers set a record (or near record) in several categories often associated with bad driving. According to accident data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), such categories include:
- Drunk driving fatalities – 401 people died in car accidents in South Carolina in 2021 caused by impaired drivers, the highest death toll in at least a decade.
- Not wearing a seatbelt – 379 deaths, another decade-high for the state.
- Speeding-related fatalities – 486 deaths in 2021, the second-highest death toll in the last 10 years.
What can drivers do to break bad habits?
Fortunately, there are many things drivers can do to break bad driving habits. Such suggestions include:
- Turn off your cellphone or set it to “do not disturb” mode.
- Come to a complete stop at all times at all stop signs and red lights.
- If you drink and drive, have a plan to get home safely, including a designated driver, rideshare service, or public transportation.
- Take a break at least every two hours when driving long distances, especially at night.
- If you encounter aggressive drivers, don’t respond. Remain calm.
- Don’t eat and drink while driving.
Seeking legal help after a crash in South Carolina
If you were injured in a crash involving a negligent driver, our South Carolina car accident lawyers at Johnson + Johnson Attorneys At Law can help you every step of the way. Our team is familiar with the rules and regulations that apply to car crashes in South Carolina. We know which legal strategies can often be the most effective. That’s why we have such a strong track record of success in obtaining the compensation our clients deserve.
Get a South Carolina law firm that’s serious about winning. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation with a Lexington, SC car accident attorney you can count on in a crisis. We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no fees unless we win your case.
