When you think of situations where you shouldn’t be driving, getting behind the wheel drunk is one of the most common. However, being under the influence is not the only thing that could cause you to be a danger on the road – there are plenty of other situations that could lead to an accident.
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Here are five situations where driving is best avoided.
1. When you’re sick
Alcohol can cloud the mind and slow your reflexes while driving, and being sick can do the same. Whether you’ve got a cold or another virus, it’s advisable to stay out of the driver’s seat when you’re feeling under the weather. When you’re sick, your vision can become blurred while you may be more lacking in energy too. Focus on getting better by staying at home instead.
2. During poor weather
Poor weather is responsible for more accidents than natural disasters in the United States, with many accidents being avoidable if the drivers hadn’t ventured out during hazardous weather. Winter is a particularly tough time of year for driving, so if the weather forecast predicts snow, extreme rain or storms – perhaps it’s best that you avoid the roads.
3. When you’re tired
Tiredness is a major cause of accidents, a common factor in car accident injury attorney cases. Tiredness can make you less alert while driving, meaning your reactions may not be as quick as they should be. If you’re embarking on a long journey, make sure that you take plenty of rest breaks and share the driving with someone else if you can.
4. When your car needs a service
If something doesn’t feel right with your car, it’s not worth the risk of taking it out on the road. Instead of worrying that your car could break down at any minute, make sure you get it serviced. You should ensure that your car gets a regular service as part of maintaining your vehicle, especially in the winter months to make sure your car is safe to drive.
5. When you’re angry
This may seem like a silly one, but your mood can affect your driving ability more than you think. Driving is listed as one of the things you shouldn’t do when you’re angry, and it’s easy to see why. You could become irrationally angry at another driver, passenger or a pedestrian – causing you to lose control of your car and make snap decisions in anger. If you feel angry or particularly emotional before driving, take some deep breaths, listen to relaxing music or even take a brisk walk before you try driving – you’ll be much better off for it.
When driving, you’ll want to minimize your chance of being in an accident as much as possible. By avoiding situations where there’s potential for an accident, you’re not only helping yourself but others on the road. Always check to make sure you’re fit to drive before getting behind the wheel to ensure safer journeys for everyone.