Eat a better diet. Get more exercise. Save money. According to Statista, those are the top-three New Year’s resolutions for 2018. While those goals can certainly boost your health and happiness, there are several others that have the potential to save your life—and help you avoid legal and financial turmoil.
Let’s explore three New Year’s resolutions to help you avoid car accidents:
- Don’t Text and Drive
About one-third of all drivers between 18 and 64 years old send texts or emails behind the wheel. On average, sending a text message takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. If you’re traveling 55 mph, that’s like driving the distance of a football field blindfolded!
By committing to distraction-free driving, not only will you reduce the risk of crashing, but you will also set a positive example for friends and family. Fortunately, there are several apps available to help you avoid the temptation to text. Some of the most popular include LifeSaver, SafeDrive, and DriveMode.
- Don’t Drink and Drive
You might not have a habit of drunk driving, but one or two drinks could be all it takes to increase your risk of crashing. According to a survey from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 1 in 5 Americans ages 16 and older admitted to driving within two hours of consuming alcohol sometime within the past 12 months. Let 2019 be the year you commit to sober driving by making this your New Year’s resolution.
- Get Plenty of Sleep Every Night
It’s surprising that this resolution isn’t more popular considering more than one-third of adults in the U.S. are sleep deprived. Not catching enough z’s can affect your mood, weaken your immune system, raise your blood pressure, and cause a host of other negative side effects. It can also inhibit your performance behind the wheel.
Falling asleep en route isn’t the only risk of driving while drowsy; people who are sleep deprived also tend to have slower response times, so even if you’re awake, fatigue can increase your risk of crashing. Set your sights on a safer, healthier, and more alert 2019 by making “get plenty of sleep” your New Year’s resolution.
Speak with a Houston Car Accident Attorney: Call 713-893-8808
Although these New Year’s resolutions can reduce your risk of getting in an accident, even the most diligent drivers are not immune to collisions. If you or someone you love suffers an injury due to a negligent motorist, turn to Chelsie King Garza, P.C. to discuss your case.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. With more than 16 years in legal practice, Chelsie Garza has the experience and resources to help you navigate the claims process.
When you contact our office, you will talk directly to Chelsie—not a paralegal or junior associate. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 713-893-8808 or use our Contact Page to send us a message online.
