Reasons why you are more likely to get into an accident close to home

Reasons why you are more likely to get into an accident close to home

Data collected by the NHTSA, (National Highway Transportation Safety Board) continues to show that most accidents take place within a few miles of driver’s homes. Understanding the reasons why can assist drivers to take proactive steps to reduce these risks and get home safely.

One logical reason that accidents take place close to home is that most of our driving is done near our home. The grocery store, school drop-offs, doctor’s appointments, etc. are routinely selected in part by their proximity to our residence.

Since we are most familiar with areas near our home it is possible to let our guard down.  The safe driving practice would be to not allow our guard to drop due to overconfidence. Remaining vigilant at all times while driving is essential in reducing driving risks.

Another common factor in vehicular accidents is driver fatigue.  A study done by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) stated that 37% of adults get less sleep than they should.  A fact that speaks volumes of the potential for driving while tired.  A tired driver can have increased risks similar to one who has been drinking. If we are exhausted on our way home from work or perhaps from a long drive, we can easily miss identifying certain risks in time. Getting sufficient rest along with a healthful diet or even allowing a more rested passenger to drive will help to get home safely.

At NHSA, we are committed to helping all drivers to be safe drivers. Our online driver’s education classes and basic driver safety courses will help you to be fully prepared for driving safely.  See what driving classes are available in your state!