According to the statistic of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there are 42,915 find their death in traffic accidents in 2021. This number has increased by 10.5 percent compared to the same statistic from 2020.
This is a dark statistic that shows even though we are living with the most innovative technologies in transport, there is much to be done regarding safety on the road. Using transportation is vital for our life, but it’s also a cause of many accidents that happen every day on American roads. No one is prevented from participating in a car crash so we all have to know how to increase our chances of surviving.
What are the main reasons behind deadly car accidents
The same statistic shows that human error and lack of attention while driving are the most common reason for deadly car accidents. The list also includes:
- Driving in an intoxicated state (under influence of alcohol or drugs);
- Lack of Proper Seat Belt Use;
- Not obeying the speed limits and other road rules;
- Using distractions like phones while driving;
- Driving tired;
What we can do to prevent road accidents
If everyone follows the safety driving recommendations the number of car crashes will be decreased. We often underestimate the safety requirements during daily driving to work for example. Thinking about it’s not a big deal, because accidents won’t happen to us it’s a big mistake.
There are some easy things everyone should start doing to make the road a safer place for all of the road participants:
- Always keep the focus on what is happening around you.
- Obey the speed limits.
- Always wear a seat belt and make other passengers put on their too.
- Avoid distractions like texting or eating.
- Don’t seat behind the wheel if you’re tired, sleepy, or under the alcohol influence.
- Pay attention at intersections.
What actions to take to survive during an accident
Sometimes even though you follow all the safety recommendations a car accident can’t be avoided. If you find yourself in such a situation the most crucial is to stay calm and remember the following things you can do.
If there is an accident in front you have to respond quickly but taking any sudden actions is dangerous. What you have to do is try to spot the safest way you can. Look around and see if there is another place where you can crash. For example, if you crash into the bushes, you can avoid physical damage of your and other passages.
If your vehicle begins to ski when the road is frozen never put the brake unless you have no other choice. You better try to take your foot off the accelerator. In these cases, you have to trust the anti-lock brake system of your car, that’s why be sure it’s always in a good condition.
Whatever you do try to remain the car in an upside position. As long as you balance the car to stay in an upside position you have a better chance to survive the accident.
What actions to take after the accident
The first and most important thing is to stay calm and evaluate the situation. Try not to take sudden movements. See if you have injuries then ask other passengers about how they feel. If there are seriously injured people call immediately to 911 and give them all the needed information.
Perform first aid to seriously injured people. This is very crucial in the first minutes after the accident. However, the wrong performance of first aid can cause more damage. That’s why to update your first damage knowledge by reading the 2 parts of the article “Guide with Crucial Steps to First-aid”.
If there is a possibility of a post-fire outbreak get off the car as soon as possible and go to a safer place. If you can take pictures of the accident. This would work as proof if there is a legal case. If you have the chance talk to the witness to the accident and ask them to stay until the police come.
It’s very important to know that you must not change anything from the accident scene. Don’t try to move your car because this won’t help you if there is a legal case.
The last step you can take is to inform your insurance company. Don’t try to lie to them and always say the truth about what happened even if the accident is your fault.
The purpose of this article is to give guidelines on how to react during a car accident to increase the chances of survival. But there is one more thing that makes us write the text. By showing you the dark statistic of death cases from car accidents in America we want to tell you to be more careful while driving. Always put safety first.
My name is Rebecca McCarthy and I am an American girl with British heritage residing in the beautiful city of Nashville, Tennessee. I have always had a keen interest in cars, particularly brand new ones that showcase the latest technology and design features. I am also passionate about travelling and experiencing new cultures, as well as enjoying hot summer days with friends and family.
