The first month of the year is often a time when many people make a fresh start.
For Mainers who want to make a difference, here’s a New Year’s resolution to consider – avoid bad driving habits that often result in car accidents.
So, which bad driving habits are the most dangerous? What can Mainers do to change such habits? AAA has a few suggestions. Our Maine car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein also have some helpful advice.
What are the most common bad driving habits?
Every year, the AAA’s research association – the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety – conducts a nationwide survey designed to measure people’s attitudes about dangerous driving and whether they personally engage in such dangerous driving habits.
Recently, the foundation released the results of its 2022 survey, which is officially called the “Traffic Safety Culture Index.” Nearly 2,500 licensed drivers nationwide participated in the survey.
The results include some startling findings about dangerous driving habits drivers have done within the past 30 days, including:
- Not stopping at a red light – 8 percent said they ran a red light at least once.
- Excessive speeding – 7 percent said they drove at least 15 mph over the speed limit on a highway or 10 mph over the speed limit on a city street.
- Drowsy driving – 9 percent said they could barely keep their eyes open while driving.
- Distracted driving – 15 percent said they had texted while driving or engaged in other distracted driving behavior.
- Drunk driving – 3 percent said they were intoxicated while driving at least once within the last month.
Do drivers in Maine have similar bad habits?
Unfortunately, drivers in Maine have many of the same bad driving habits as other drivers around the country. Maine car accident statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) illustrate this point.
In 2021, which is the most recent data available from the NHTSA, drivers in Maine caused car accident fatalities due to many dangerous driving habits, including:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol – 45 fatalities.
- Speeding – 26 fatalities.
- Not wearing a seatbelt – 55 deaths.
What can drivers in Maine do to change bad habits?
Luckily, there are many things drivers in Maine can do to change such bad driving habits, including:
- Distracted driving – Turn off your cellphone while driving or set it on “do not disturb” mode.
- Speeding – Set the cruise control to a reasonable speed on the highway. Also, give yourself enough time to get to your destination, especially during the winter in Maine.
- Drunk driving – If you plan to drink, have a plan to get home safely. Such plans can include a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare driver to get you to your destination.
- Drowsy driving – Take a break, especially if driving long distances at night.
- Reckless driving – Obey all posted traffic signs, including stop signs and red lights.
- Aggressive drivers – Don’t react to them. If another driver is aggressive, stay calm and do not escalate the situation.
In addition to these practical tips, young drivers in Maine can also engage with road safety through the annual Arrive Alive Creative Contest. This contest, presented by the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, encourages high school seniors to think creatively about the importance of safe driving.
Participants submit original projects that highlight the dangers of reckless and distracted driving. These projects not only foster awareness among young drivers but also contribute to a safer driving culture in Maine. By participating in or supporting this initiative, drivers of all ages can reinforce their commitment to road safety and help reduce accidents.
Injured in a crash? Talk to a car accident lawyer about your legal rights
If you were injured in a Maine car accident, an attorney at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein can help you every step of the way. We know the rules and regulations that apply to serious collisions in Maine. As a result, we won’t waste a second getting right to work on your case. That’s why we consistently get great results.
Give your case the best opportunity for success. Contact our Maine law firm and schedule your free case evaluation with a Maine car accident attorney focused on your personal needs. We have seven offices conveniently located throughout Maine. We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you only have to pay us if we secure a financial settlement or verdict for you.
The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein – we fight to win for injured Mainers.
