Driving Safety: How Increased Time on the Road Impacts Your Safety

The Growing Trend of Increased Driving Time

When Eddie Rabbit sang about driving his life away in the 1970s, he likely didn’t foresee how prophetic his words would become. Over the past decade, American drivers have consistently logged more miles annually, with recent studies showing that both time spent driving and the number of daily car trips are on the rise. This trend isn’t just a statistic—it’s a growing concern for road safety.

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According to a recent AAA survey, Americans collectively spend 70 billion hours in their cars each year, marking an 8% increase over the past five years. Additionally, daily car trips have risen by nearly 3%, while time spent driving each day and miles driven daily have increased by 6% and 5%, respectively. These numbers highlight a significant shift in driving habits, but they also underscore the heightened risks associated with more time on the road.

The Risks of Increased Driving Time

Dr. David Yang, executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, emphasizes that longer driving times directly correlate with greater exposure to road risks. “The more time drivers spend behind the wheel, the more likely they are to experience fatigue, distraction, or impatience—all of which contribute to vehicle crashes,” he explains. Staying alert and focused is crucial for ensuring the safety of drivers, passengers, and others on the road.

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Unfortunately, the data supports this concern. Between 2014 and 2017, driving fatalities in the U.S. surged by 14%, from 32,675 to 37,133, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System. The National Safety Council (NSC) reported an even higher estimate of 40,000 highway fatalities in 2018, marking the third consecutive year that driving deaths exceeded this threshold—a trend not seen since the Great Recession.

Key Factors Contributing to Road Accidents

Several factors contribute to the rising number of road accidents, many of which are exacerbated by increased driving time. Below are some of the most critical issues:

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• Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel can lead to drowsy driving, which impairs reaction times and decision-making.
• Distraction: Mobile phones, infotainment systems, and other distractions divert attention from the road.
• Aggressive Driving: Increased traffic and longer commutes can fuel impatience and road rage.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications remains a significant hazard.
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How to Stay Safe on the Road

To combat these risks, the NSC and other safety organizations recommend adopting proactive measures to ensure safer driving experiences. Here are some actionable tips:

1. Practice Defensive Driving

Defensive driving involves staying alert, anticipating potential hazards, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. Always buckle up, avoid distractions, and ensure you’re well-rested before hitting the road.

2. Avoid Impaired Driving

Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications that may impair your abilities. Designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation if needed.

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3. Educate Young Drivers

Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to accidents. Openly discuss the dangers of distracted and impaired driving with them, and set a positive example through your own driving habits.

4. Understand Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced safety systems like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Familiarize yourself with these features to maximize their effectiveness.

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5. Address Recalls Promptly

Ensure your vehicle is free of open recalls by using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s VIN lookup tool. Addressing recalls promptly can prevent potential safety issues.

6. Advocate for Safer Roads

Engage with lawmakers and community leaders to push for legislation that enhances road safety, such as stricter DUI laws and improved infrastructure.

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Featured Snippet: How to Reduce Driving Risks

Question: How can I reduce the risks associated with increased driving time?

Answer: To reduce driving risks, practice defensive driving, avoid impaired driving, educate young drivers, understand your vehicle’s safety features, address recalls promptly, and advocate for safer road legislation.

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Conclusion

As driving times continue to rise, so do the risks associated with spending more hours on the road. By understanding these risks and adopting proactive safety measures, drivers can protect themselves and others. At MotorVero, we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to stay safe on the road. Remember, safer driving starts with you.