The Cars

We can be thankful that driving in Britain is a relatively safe experience, with millions of people making successful and uneventful journeys daily. However, this shouldn’t make us forget about the hundreds of people that die every year on our roads, whether they be pedestrians, passengers or the drivers themselves. The sight of bright colourful flowers standing out amongst the drab tarmac as a tribute to those unfortunate enough to have lost their lives often mean it isn’t possible for us to forget at all.

It shouldn’t need saying that there is no excuse for driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, people shouldn’t drive when particularly tired or feeling unwell. And obviously, speed limits and other road laws should be followed. By just following the basics correctly the road already becomes a safer space.

Another way to ensure safe journeys is by knowing how to get to where you’re going. This isn’t a concern on a weekly trip to the supermarket, but when driving on an unfamiliar route extra caution is needed. If driving on an unknown country road take your time – don’t worry about impatient drivers behind you. Plan routes before you leave to make sure your eyes can concentrate on what’s beyond the windscreen, not down at a map.

Sat navs aren’t the only things capable of distraction. Eating or drinking while driving is dangerous as it requires you to take your hands off the wheel, leaving you in less control. Mobile phones are even worse because they require you to look away and take away your concentration. Another huge distraction can be children. If undertaking a long journey it is hugely advisable that a second adult accompanies you to look after them.

Most people know what constitutes safe and unsafe driving practice, but feel like they can get away with it. The truth is, that sometimes you can get away with driving unsafely. But is it a risk worth taking? The possibility that you could face a fine, driving ban or prison sentence is nothing compared to the chance that you could conceivably end your own life or live with the guilt of having ended someone else’s.

Find out whether you have the right to make a car accident claim