Which driving behaviors are the most hazardous?

Hazardous driving behaviors cause frustration on the road, but that is not all they do. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, 1,079 people lost their lives as a result of traffic accidents in 2020. The state also saw 169,549 crashes that same year, with 66,444 injuries. 

Even if you are a responsible driver, you may still encounter negligence on the road. The following are a few of the most dangerous driving habits, which are likely to lead to a serious crash when drivers do not take steps to avoid them. 

Speeding 

Speeding not only increases the risk of an accident, it can also cause even worse injuries. Speed limits are designed for each specific road, so drivers must follow them to ensure safety. Additionally, you should also adjust your speed in inclement weather, as driving the posted speed limit may still be hazardous when weather is bad. 

Driving while distracted

Texting while driving is a common cause of accidents. However, other distractions, like eating behind the wheel, having a conversation with a passenger, and changing the radio station, are also distracting. Drivers must pay attention to the road at all times, whether driving across the state or just going one block over. 

Fatigued driving

If you are driving while drowsy, the effect can be just as impairing as driving while drunk. Drowsy driving decreases judgement, hand-eye coordination, and response time, all of which are crucial when driving. Sleepy drivers should pull over until they feel rested enough to continue on. 

Aggressive driving

Being cool, calm, and collected behind the wheel benefits you and others. Road rage occurs when drivers let their emotions take over and react angrily. A driver may tailgate, cut you off, or swerve into your lane in order to make their displeasure known. People make mistakes, and reacting to mistakes on the road will only endanger others.