Motor vehicle crashes are the single greatest cause of death and disability for Idahoans age 1 to 34 and are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among people of all ages. In addition, motor vehicle crashes cost Idahoans billions of dollars every year. In order to reduce death, disability, and cost associated with motor vehicle accidents practice these safe driving tips:
Don't be an aggressive driver. Aggressive drivers are people who drive to fast, fail to yield right of way, follow other vehicles too closely, or don’t pay attention to stop signs or signals. Crashes attributed to aggressive driving cost Idahoans nearly $1.3 billion in 2008.
Be an attentive driver. Attentive drivers pay constant attention to the road. Distracted drivers focus their attention on something other than driving. Distractions can involve anything that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the steering wheel, or focuses your attention on something other than driving. Distracted driving crashes cost Idahoans almost $828 million in 2008.
Wear your seatbelt and place children in child safety seats. Seatbelts are estimated to prevent half of all serious and fatal injuries. Unrestrained passengers cost Idahoans almost $799 million in 2008.
Don’t drive while impaired. Impaired driving is when the driver of the vehicle is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving crashes cost Idahoans over $725 million in 2008.