How to Prevent Motor Vehicle Crashes

Driving is important for many people, but it can be very dangerous without using safe driving practices. Every year, millions of people are injured and thousands die in motor vehicle accidents. Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the U.S. You can be safe while driving and reduce your risk of an accident by taking certain simple actions.

Why does preventing motor vehicle crashes matter?

• A motor vehicle crash can have a huge impact on your life and your family. It can affect your physical and emotional health and your finances. After an accident, you may have to miss work, and your auto insurance rates may increase.
• A motor vehicle crash can kill or injure anyone in the car or on the road, including innocent bystanders.
• Many deaths and injuries could be avoided every year if more drivers took steps to prevent motor vehicle accidents.

What changes can be made to prevent motor vehicle crashes?

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or using drugs. This includes some prescription and over-the-counter medicines that can make you drowsy or cause delayed reaction times. If you are taking prescription medicines, ask your health care provider if it is safe for you to drive.
• Always wear a seat belt. The easiest way to prevent serious injuries or death from a car crash is to wear a seat belt every time you are in a car.
• Before you start driving:
  • Choose your radio station and leave the radio on that station until you arrive at your destination.
  • Set your navigation system so you do not have to use it while driving.
• Use a car seat or booster seat for young children. Make sure that these seats are installed correctly and are the right size for the child’s age and weight.
• Do not use a cell phone or any other digital device while driving. Do not text while driving.
• Obey speed limits and other traffic laws at all times. Do not speed.
• Pay close attention to road conditions. Slow down when there is rain, snow, or icy roads.
• Do not eat or drink while driving.
• Be alert and cautious of those around you while driving. Give other drivers plenty of space.

What can happen if changes are not made?

The personal and economic costs of motor vehicle accidents can be high. Be aware that:

• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly increases your chance of having an accident. There could also be consequences such as fines or jail time.
• Not using seat belts or the correct car seat for children greatly increases the risk of serious injury or death from an accident.
• Distracted driving, such as eating, talking, or texting on the phone while driving, greatly increases your chance of having an accident.

What can I do to protect myself while driving or riding in a car?

• Always wear your seat belt.
• Stay aware of your surroundings. If you notice a dangerous driver, give that person plenty of space on the road or choose an alternate route, if possible.
• Do not use a cell phone or any other digital device while driving. If you are riding in a car and the driver is using a phone, tell him or her to stop.
• Do not drive after drinking alcohol, even after having just one drink. Do not ride in a car with a driver who has been drinking alcohol. Try to stop others from driving after drinking.

Where to find more information

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/motor-vehicle-safety.html  
• Occupational Health and Safety Administration: www.osha.gov/Publications/motor_vehicle_guide.pdf  
• Association of State and Territorial Health Officials: www.astho.org/Programs/Prevention/Injury-and-Violence-Prevention/Preventing-Motor-Vehicle-Injuries/Preventing-Motor-Vehicle-Injuries  

Summary

• Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the U.S.
• Many crashes and serious injuries can be avoided with simple changes in driving behavior.
• To stay safe while driving, it is important to follow traffic laws and speed limits and use seat belts and car seats.
• Never drive after drinking any alcohol or using drugs or medicines that make you drowsy or alter your reaction time.
• Avoid distractions while driving, such as cell phones and food.