If you regularly drive across the country or simply like to visit different parts of the state from time to time, you need to recognize certain risk factors associated with driving in different areas. For example, some drivers who are not familiar with traffic in particular areas do not understand unique hazards and dangerous sections of the road. Moreover, fatigue, distractions and other risks are especially concerning when people go on road trips or drive a rental car in another city.
Unfortunately, these accidents sometimes shatter vacations and lead to lifelong hardships, such as permanent immobility. In some cases, they even claim lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 35,000 people died in traffic accidents during 2015.
The hazards that drivers encounter while traveling
If you are driving a vehicle while you are on a trip, there are various risk factors that you need to recognize. For example, if you are not familiar with chaotic roads in an urban environment, the odds of an accident are sometimes higher. Likewise, many drivers become distracted while trying to use their GPS, read a map or observe landmarks. Additionally, many drivers struggle with fatigue after spending a significant amount of time behind the wheel, which is very dangerous when they are unable to remain alert in a different area.
The risk of accidents close to home
Sometimes, people are struck by other drivers from out-of-town while they are in their own neighborhood. It is important to remember that motor vehicle collisions often occur very close to one’s home, regardless of their familiarity with roads and their ability to stay alert behind the wheel. Wherever you operate a vehicle, you need to focus on road safety.