As spring returns to the Pacific Northwest, many people in Washington State are eager to spend more time outside. This can often translate into more people enjoying the chance to walk places instead of driving or taking a bus, for example. While walking can be a great form of exercise and is an environmentally friendly form of transportation, it does come with its own unique set of risks. Sharing the road with cars, trucks and other vehicles puts people on foot in vulnerable positions a great percentage of the time.
Pedestrian risks and safety tips
What are ways to protect your child from bicycle accidents?
Like many Washington residents, you may remember the fun and freedom of riding a bike as a child and want your kids to have the same enjoyable experience. However, you may also worry about the risk of accidents and injuries. There are many ways that you may reduce the risk of an accident by helping your child learn to ride safely.
Accident risks at night
During the nighttime, driving can be particularly dangerous for countless reasons. Unfortunately, many accidents occur during these hours, and the consequences can be devastating. Driving at night may increase the probability of being involved in a drunk driving crash or being struck by a driver who has been taking illegal drugs. Moreover, accidents are especially likely to happen due to less visibility and the prevalence of fatigue. It is vital to be vigilant at night because even if you are very responsible while on the road, other drivers may be reckless and place your life in danger.
Where does most distracted driving in Washington occur?
Distracted driving is one of the greatest dangers on Washington's roadways. People of all ages use their smartphones while behind the wheel, and this greatly increases their chances of getting in a car accident. Every day in the United States, over 1,000 people suffer from injuries as a result of distracted driving while an average of nine people lose their lives.
How to keep teens safe on the road
Teen texting and driving as big a problem in Washington as any other state. Texting and driving especially terrifies parents, because even otherwise well-behaved teens may succumb to the temptation.
