Think you're a good driver? Think again. If you're the type to speed, tailgate, or drive under the influence, you're only causing more trouble on the road. As reported by the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while there was a 3.8% decrease in traffic fatalities in 2024, the estimated number falls just shy of 40,000 deaths. And, as NHTSA Chief Counsel Peter Simshauser has said, "America’s traffic fatality rate remains high relative to many peer nations."
How can you contribute to further lowering this number? It's simple: be a cautious, safe driver. That means no speeding, no breaking the three-second safe following distance rule, and no driving while intoxicated or distracted. What should you do instead? The opposite of all those things—plus being predictable on the road.
Slow Down
Your instinct might be to speed, especially when everyone else on the road is going faster than the limit, but you have to learn how to resist the urge. It's no surprise that speeding kills; in 2023, the NHTSA reported 11,775 deaths caused by excessive acceleration. After all, the faster you go, the less time you give yourself to react to danger or obstacles that suddenly pop up on the road. More speed also equals more braking time.
In contrast, if you stick to the posted limit and slow down, you'll be much more aware of your surroundings and will be better equipped to handle unexpected situations should any arise. It'll also give you more control in adverse weather conditions, such as in heavy rain, sleet, or snow.
Make Space
Instead of tailgating or driving parallel to other vehicles on the road, you want to give yourself as much room as possible. This way, you'll be able to brake in time without accidentally colliding with the car in front, or avoid scraping against a car in the lane beside yours. The more space you have around you, the better chance you have to react accordingly and drive safely.
Remember the three-second rule for safe following distance: allow at least three seconds of space to be between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you time to recognize when hazards come up and how to respond safely. You should also follow a similar rule when stopping behind another car at a red light—not only will it help you keep a safe following distance once the light turns green, but it'll also allow you more room to maneuver if you need to switch lanes.
Don't Drive Distracted
Never drive under the influence or distracted. Contrary to what you might think, many things can detract your attention from the road, from loud music and heated conversations to upset infants and constant mobile notifications. When you're behind the wheel, make it a rule for yourself to keep your eyes and focus solely on the road in front of you.
It's not just drunk driving that kills. Being under any drug, legal or illegal, can also be deadly. Make sure to never take any prescribed or over-the-counter medications that may make you drowsy. If you need to work, take public transit, ask someone to give you a ride, or call in sick.
Be Predictable and Learn How to Predict the Road Ahead
When you're driving, you want to ensure you're as predictable as possible to other road users. This means using your signals, keeping safe distances, staying in your lane, and making eye contact when needed. By being predictable, you help others understand your intentions far ahead of time.
You should also predict the road ahead. Your surroundings can change quickly, so it's important to scan for any obstacles, pedestrians, or other safety hazards so you know how to respond quickly and properly. For example, if you only paid attention to the car in front of you, you may miss road signs indicating road closures, parked vehicles blocking a lane you need to change to, or cyclists riding ahead or behind.
Being a safe driver is easy, as long as you follow the correct habits. Just remember to slow down, make room, never drive distracted or under the influence, and be predictable. Your passengers and other road users will appreciate you.
