Are you driving safely? Essential Road Safety Advice
We recently came across a news article from the USA with some striking statistics that are relevant for drivers in the UK. Half of those killed in car crashes in the USA were not wearing a seat belt. Since 90% of Americans routinely use seat belts, this shows that skipping it makes you nine times more likely to die in a crash.
The clear message: Always make sure you and your passengers are wearing seat belts.
How Road Safety Has Improved
Car safety has dramatically improved over the decades:
1930: 15 car deaths per 100 million vehicle miles
1945: 7 car deaths per 100 million vehicle miles
Present day: 1 car death per 100 million vehicle miles (about 30,000 in 2014)
Despite this decline, 2015 saw a rise in the number and severity of car deaths.
The Risks of Distracted Driving
Warren Buffett highlighted that as cars become safer, driver behavior is more often the problem. Around a third of deaths were influenced by drink driving, but a large proportion were caused by distracted driving—phoning or texting while at the wheel.
The clear message: Do not use your phone while driving.
Drive Safely
Simple steps like wearing your seat belt and avoiding distractions can dramatically reduce your risk on the road. Protect yourself and your passengers by staying focused and alert.
