Operating a vehicle is the most dangerous and potentially deadly activity we do every day. While a necessary task, it takes focus, practice and skill to safely operate a vehicle moving 80 feet per second (55 mph). The many distractions drivers can face don't help. Researchers and state insurance regulators all point to distracted driving as the cause of more frequent, more costly and too often deadly accidents, resulting in higher insurance premiums. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is here to provide some guidelines to safely get you to your destination
Start sober. Don't get behind the wheel while impaired — whether it's due to exhaustion, medicine, alcohol or recreational drugs. Drunk/impaired drivers are responsible for approximately 10,000 fatalities a year.
Before the car moves:
- Plan your route, and set your map or navigation technology before you depart. Don't touch it again until after reaching your destination.
- Pick your tunes, podcast, station or playlist, and set at a volume that allows you to focus on your driving.
- Put away your phone, other devices, food, make-up or anything else that might tempt you to take your hands off the wheel.
- BUCKLE UP. Everyone. Unrestrained (unbuckled) occupants make up nearly half of those killed in accidents.
While on the road:
- Obey speed limits, and keep your eyes on the road.
- Ask passengers to help you stay focused on everybody's safety. Passengers (especially teens), speak up if the driver gets distracted or drives unsafely.
- Parents, your children will learn from your behavior. Be the driver you want them to be.
Keep the ROAD CODE — a commitment to focused, responsible driving. Doing so will save lives and money.
Download a printable accident checklist and other tips for staying calm, safe and smart on the road.
More Information
For more information about auto insurance, please contact your state insurance department or check out the auto insurance webpage on the NAIC Insure U website.
