According to a recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Americans desire safer roadways and they support government actions to get it. Still, a majority of drivers continue to engage in dangerous driving behavior and increase risks for car accidents in Phoenix and elsewhere.The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that there were nearly 32,900 people who were killed in car accidents nationwide in 2010. Although this is the lowest number of traffic fatalities recorded in the last 60 years, the number is still alarmingly high.
Our Phoenix car accident lawyers understand that car accidents are still the number one cause of death among residents 4- to 34-years-old. Although drivers recognize the need for safer driving habits, many of them are not willing to make the change themselves. That’s why we’re asking for everyone to join forces and to raise awareness about roadway safety. Safer roadways start with you and by exercising safe driving habits, we can all work together to make 2012 the safest year ever!
“Take the first step and make a personal goal to be a safe driver in 2012,” said AAA’s Predicent a CEO, Peter Kissinger.
Someone dies in a car accident every 16 minutes in the U.S. Until this number reaches zero, we as Americans and as responsible drivers have much work to do.
According to the AAA Study:
-More than 85 percent of drivers said that it was completely irresponsible to drive without buckling up, but about a quarter of drivers said that they don’t wear a seat belt while driving.
-A majority of drivers said that is was unacceptably dangerous to drive more than 10 mph over the posted speed limit in neighborhoods, yet plenty admitted doing it.
-Approximately 95 percent of drivers reported that they believe that drinking and driving endangers everyone on the roadways. Even with near unanimous opposition, about 15 percent admitted to doing it at least once in the last 30 days.
-Almost all of the surveyed drivers stated that they thought it was irresponsible, dangerous and unacceptable for a driver to run through a red light, but more than 35 percent said that they’ve done it at least once in the last month.
-A majority of drivers stated that talking on a cell phone behind the wheel is a dangerous habit, but about one in every three drivers said that they do it regularly.
-Nearly all surveyed drivers said that texting while driving is a big no-no, but a third said that they take part in the behavior often.
Researchers see this “do as I say, not as I do” attitude increases the risks– drivers feel that everyone should do what is safe and what is right behind the wheel, but feel that they shouldn’t be held to these same standards. Drivers throughout the state of Arizona and throughout the country are asked to put their best foot forward in making our roadways safer in 2012. Make safe driving habits a top priority this year and for years to come!
If you, a friend or a family member has been injured in a Phoenix car accident, contact the Arizona injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation. Call 866-99-ABELS speak directly to a lawyer today. There is no fee unless you win.
More Blog Entries:
Drivers Distractions Increasing Risks of Car Accidents in Arizona, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, January 18, 2012
ADOT Warns Motorists of Winter Weather and Risks for Car Accidents in Arizona, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, January 5, 2012