What Is a Hazard?
Hazards are conditions that increase the probability of damage or injury, like a crack in a sidewalk, a spill in the aisle, a work truck without proper lighting, or inadequate lighting on the steps in front of a business.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a driving hazard is “Any condition or object that increases the risk of a traffic collision.” Hazards are potential dangers that various factors on the road can present, highlighting the importance of hazard awareness and mitigation for safe driving.
The benefits of recognizing and addressing driving hazards include improved safety for all road users, reduced likelihood of accidents and injuries, and lower vehicle repair costs.
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What to Do if Your Brakes Fail on the Highway
Many of us get into our vehicles daily or multiple times a day and shift into a sort of auto-pilot when we get behind the steering wheel. Our daily commutes are mundane, making falling into a hypnotic state easy. But what happens when the lull is broken, and you realize that the usually slow push of your brake pedal isn’t doing anything, and before you know it, you’re in a car accident?
If you experience brake failure on the highway, you should keep a few things in mind to keep yourself and other drivers safe.
What to Do if Your Brakes Fail While Driving
Nothing is scarier than realizing that your brake pedals are not working. Instead of slowing down, you are moving closer and closer to another vehicle, pedestrian, or highway guard rails.
Crash Statistics from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggest that about 22% of vehicle-related crashes were due to brake issues. […]
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What to Do If You Have a Flat Tire on the Highway
A flat tire can quickly turn a routine drive into a stressful situation, especially on a busy road. However, you can handle this common vehicle issue safely and efficiently with knowledge and preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to the road, knowing what to do if you have a punctured tire, a tire blowout, or a slow leak on a highway can help you face this unexpected challenge with confidence and ensure you get back on your journey as quickly and safely as possible.
Initial Steps for a Flat Tire: Staying Safe
Dealing with a flat tire can be stressful, especially on a busy road. To ensure your safety, follow these initial steps:
- Find a Safe Location: Grip the steering wheel firmly to counteract the strong vibrations of your flat. Pull over to a safe spot, such as a breakdown lane on the side of the road or a nearby gas station. […]
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Do Truck Drivers Really Watch TV While They Are Driving?
Understanding why truck drivers get distracted can help us tackle the issue and promote safer driving in the trucking industry. Distractions often come from long hours on the road, the repetitive nature of driving, and the ease of accessing technology. These factors put the driver and everyone else sharing the road in danger.
Reasons Behind Distracted Driving Among Truck Drivers
Truck drivers often spend long hours behind the steering wheel, covering hundreds of miles each day. This can lead to monotonous conditions, particularly at night or when driving through remote areas with little variation in scenery. The mental fatigue of a trucking job can be extreme, and from these extended hours, some truck drivers seek out distractions to break up the monotony.
Hours of service regulations are designed to limit the time a truck driver can spend on the road without rest, reducing the hazard of fatigued driving. […]
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