Speeding is on the rise

With highways and rural streets emptier than usual, many drivers are taking advantage by driving fast – sometimes, a little too fast.

With less traffic and less police presence, speeding seems to be on the rise across the country. The increase could lead to serious implications as we head into the summer, like more accidents and more injuries.

No one wants to make a hospital visit, so what can you do to protect yourself on the road?

Avoid “matching their speed.”

Many drivers are taught to match the speed of the drivers around them. You don’t want to be the slowest driver on the highway and cause problems for other folks.

While there is a truth in the advice, you should not match speeds to those who are speeding past you. It will put you and other drivers at risk.

Strap in

One of the first things children learn when they hop into a vehicle is put on your seatbelt. Luckily, it doesn’t change as you get older. It’s incredibly helpful to fight injuries due to speeding behaviors.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts reduce fatal injuries by 45 percent and critical injuries by 50 percent. Taking a few seconds to buckle up could potentially save your life in a car crash.

Practice patience

Even as bars, restaurants and stores begin to open, it’s crucial to remember that you need to practice patience on the road. Slow down and watch out for cyclists and pedestrians.

If you feel the need to rush out of the house or race over to the store, remember that your health and safety is worth taking a few extra minutes.

If everyone does their part to reduce their speeds and practice safe driving habits, we will make the roads safer for everybody.