BERLIN: Whether you’re riding on two wheels or four, staying alert when you’re in traffic is harder than it seems. These are eight of the most common things we forget that lead to to fatal crashes, and how to better pay attention to them, according to experts.
Distractions: Any time your eyes stray from the road can be risky, and mobile phones are a major distraction. If you need to check directions on your phone or make an adjustment to your route navigation, pull over to the side of the road.
Alcohol: Even a little tipple affects your coordination, concentration and reaction time. If you drink alcohol and get behind the wheel, you’re not only a risk to yourself but to everyone else on the road.
Distance between vehicles: Riding too close to other vehicles is a big cause of accidents. Maintain sufficient space between yourself and the cars in front of you to ensure enough time to react to sudden braking.
Practice: Especially motorcyclists might not get enough practice on the road throughout the year to keep their senses sharp. Consider taking a refresher driving course if you feel unsure on the road.
Advanced age: The risk for accidents increases substantially for drivers over 75. If you’re a senior, consider occasionally booking an appointment at a driving school to get feedback on how you’re doing.
Stress: Driving while stressed is dangerous, and other drivers can sometimes raise your blood pressure. But reacting reasonably — for example, letting pushy drivers pass at the next opportunity - can help avoid accidents. Keeping a cool head is the best route.
Fatigue: Driving while extremely tired is quite similar to driving while drunk: Fatigue impairs your awareness and reaction time. Many drivers overestimate their ability to drive while tired, which can be a fatal misjudgement.
Traffic: More drivers on the road requires a high degree of concentration from each individual, especially when traffic gets caught in jams, unforeseen construction sites and diversions.
