Kathryn Jean Lucas, MD
611 N 35th St
Morehead City, North Carolina 28557

inside health

STAYING ALIVE ON THE ROAD

By: K. Jean Lucas, M.D.

As physicians, we realize that often the best means of treating illnesses and injuries is to prevent them from happening in the first place.  Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death in people 1 to 36 years old.  Accidents not only kill people but cause multiple chronic problems from injuries.  Each year almost 50,000 people die in motor vehicle accidents and another 1.5 million are seriously injured.  Avoid being one of these statistics by taking a minute to review how safely you drive and what you can do to prevent an accident from occurring.

Driving defensively means being aware of what is going on around you the entire time you are driving.  You must keep your eyes moving from front to rearview and side mirrors, constantly observing the traffic and events around you.  In addition to awareness, you must learn to anticipate another driver's moves and how they may affect you.  Plan your escape route if another car is unaware of your presence or has the potential to endanger you.  Make sure other drivers know what your moves are going to be.  Use turn signals well in advance of turning.  Do not make sudden moves and do not follow too closely.  Leave at least one car length for every 10 mph between you and the car in front.  Pay attention to your driving.  The time you are driving is not meant to be a free period in which you should apply makeup, play with the kids, or look up phone numbers.  Every instant your eyes and mind leave the road is a potential disaster.  

Keeping your car well maintained and in good working order may prevent a breakdown.  Make sure your tires are rotated and balanced at proper intervals and changed when they are worn. Be aware of the fuel gauge and keep plenty of gasoline in your car.  When shopping for a new car, look for safety features such as airbags and antilock brakes.

Be sure to leave plenty of time to get to your destination.  Know where you are going and how you are going to get there before you leave.  Do not drive if you are angry, upset, or have been drinking alcohol since all of these will impair your judgment and ability to drive safely.

Be sure your children are in their car seats or are wearing their seat belts.  Always be sure to WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT.

ENJOY YOUR TRIP!

More information can be obtained by contacting the National Safety Council and the Governor's Office of Highway Safety

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