New Year, New Safety Resolutions: Encouraging Safe Driving Habits for the New Year

As the new year begins, many people resolve to make positive changes, often focusing on health and well-being. This year, consider adding safe driving habits to your list of resolutions.

Road safety is critical for personal and community well-being, especially given the high number of accidents and fatalities. In the first half of 2024 alone, 18,720 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., with many collisions caused by unsafe driving behaviors like speeding and distracted driving.

In Wisconsin, safer roads begin with drivers’ commitment to responsible habits. Start the year by reducing distractions, following speed limits, and practicing defensive driving.

Driving Safety: A New Year’s Resolution

Each new year invites a fresh start and the chance to commit to better habits. What if, this year, you made safe driving a priority? Road safety is a personal benefit that reduces risks for each driver and a community responsibility that promotes safer roads for everyone.

In 2022, 3,308 lives were lost to distracted driving, with an additional 289,310 people injured. Speeding took another 12,151 lives nationwide that year. In Wisconsin, there were 547 fatal crashes and over 25,071 injury-related incidents in 2022, with speed and alcohol contributing factors in many of the collisions. 

Practicing safe driving habits, like avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits, and never driving under the influence, helps protect you and your loved ones and creates a safer community for all drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. After a crash, Bank on Brian to stand up for your rights and help you get back on the road to wellness.

Avoid Common Driving Distractions

Dangerous behaviors like texting or talking on the phone increase the risk of accidents and are illegal in Wisconsin. Here are some common distractions to avoid, along with tips to help you stay focused while driving:

• Texting and Phone Use: Just a few seconds of looking at your phone can cause you to miss a road hazard. To stay safe, set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode or use a hands-free device if you need to take a call. Save texting for when you’re safely parked.
• Eating or Drinking: Reaching for food or drink can take your hands off the wheel and your mind off the road. If you need a snack, pull over to a safe spot rather than trying to eat while driving.
• Passengers: Passenger conversations or activities can be distracting. Ask your friends or family members to minimize disruptions so you can keep your attention on the road.

The consequences of distracted driving in Wisconsin can be serious. Distracted drivers may face fines, higher insurance premiums, and even lawsuits if their negligence leads to harm. Staying focused on the road promotes safer driving and helps you avoid legal repercussions.

Hit the Road Safely: A Guide to Safe Driving

Defensive driving means anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to respond. Consider making safer driving part of your New Year’s resolution by adopting these habits:

• Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to ensure you have enough time to react if the driver stops abruptly or faces a hazard. Use the “three-second rule” in dry conditions and double your following distance in bad weather for added safety.
• Scan the Road Ahead: Focus on both the car in front of you and the movements of other vehicles further down the road. This will help you anticipate potential issues like stopped traffic or lane closures.
• Be Aware of Blind Spots: Blind spots around the sides and rear of your vehicle can make other cars difficult to see and sudden lane changes more dangerous. To stay safe, check your mirrors frequently, especially before switching lanes, and always look over your shoulder to make sure there are no hidden vehicles.
• Stay Alert in Bad Weather: Snow, rain, and ice can make roads slippery and limit visibility. During Wisconsin’s winter weather, practicing defensive driving is crucial: reduce your speed, use your headlights, and maintain plenty of space between your vehicle and others.
• Don’t Rely on Other Drivers: Always assume that other drivers might not see you or could make sudden moves. Avoid aggressive drivers, and signal your turns and lane changes in advance.

Enrolling in a defensive driving course can help you develop these essential skills. Many insurance companies offer discounts for completing these courses, making them a worthwhile investment in safety and savings.

Why Safe Driving Matters: A Lifesaver

Safe driving is more than just following the rules; it protects lives. Responsible driving reduces the risk of accidents and contributes to a safer community.

Unfortunately, accidents do happen, even with the best intentions and precautions. If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Wisconsin due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation.

After a car accident, speak with an experienced Wisconsin car crash lawyer at Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers. We can review your case, determine fault, and help you secure a fair injury settlement.

Schedule a Free Consultation

At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, our attorneys care about the safety and well-being of Wisconsin drivers and the broader community. We can protect your rights if you were hurt in an accident due to a distracted driver or other negligence. 

We can help you hold those at fault accountable and pursue damages for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us for a free case evaluation to learn your legal options.