Don’t Fall Back Into Bad Driving Habits

AAA Mid States

The summer looks very different from the year’s past with coronavirus putting a pause on many typical plans for summer activities. But as domestic travel restrictions have relaxed and people are eagerly returning to roadways, I’d like to remind all drivers to not fall back into bad driving habits.  

 

Distracted Driving

Safe driving requires your full visual and mental attention, yet many in-vehicle distractions and technologies can deter you from remaining focused on the road ahead. Just because a technology is made for the vehicle, does not mean it’s safe to use while driving. To prevent distractions while operating a vehicle, AAA recommends making any adjustments - such as moving the seats, changing the climate control, setting the GPS or tuning the sound system - before you get underway, putting away any electronic distractions like cell phones, and making sure to secure children and pets before leaving. 

 

Speeding

The most common traffic violation is speeding, which outnumbers all the other traffic violations combined. Driving recklessly because you’re running late for work or a doctor’s appointment is not only dangerous, but makes up 33 percent of all fatal crashes. Maximum speed limits are set in place to improve mobility and motorist safety. 


As a reminder, in March 2020, Pennsylvania began placing vehicle-mounted cameras in active work zones to detect motorists exceeding the work zone speed limits. Any driver traveling 11mph or over the posted speed limit will trigger the camera and record your speed. Within 90 days, a citation will be mailed to the address associated with the vehicle’s registration. 

 

Buckle Up Every Time

Buckling your seat belt is the most important safety measure you can take when operating or riding as a passenger in a vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts have saved nearly 15,000 lives in 2017 alone. Seat belts are the best defense against other drivers who are aggressive, impaired, or distracted while driving. When seat belts are properly used, they can reduce risk of fatal injury to front-seat passengers by 45 percent, and reduced risk of moderate-to-critical injury by 50 percent.
 

As you make your way back on the road, please remember to stay focused on driving. For more driver safety tips, visit Exchange.AAA.com.