The roads are full of everyday pitfalls and unexpected situations that we must be prepared for behind the wheel. Although many drivers believe they have everything under control, they often don’t realize that some of their habits are fatally dangerous. What are the most common mistakes on Czech roads and how can they be avoided?
Everyday traffic on the roads can turn into an adrenaline rush if drivers do not take their responsibilities seriously. Even small mistakes, often resulting from habits or carelessness, can cause serious accidents. Although many consider themselves to be experienced drivers, routine is often the biggest enemy.
Let’s take a look at the most common bad habits that affect safety on Czech roads. Each of them can cause an accident that could have been prevented by a simple change in behavior. It is not only about your own life, but also about the fate of all other road users.
“When the car doesn’t listen to me, doesn’t turn the way I want, or gets into a problem, it’s a good idea to help yourself by stepping on the clutch and reacting quickly with the steering wheel. There’s always time to brake,” he advises on how to behave in a situation when you’re not in control of your car control, Pavel Palma from Polygon in Mostec.
On video from Watch Savagegeese with the biggest mistakes and bad habits of drivers on YouTube:
Source: Youtube
Calling while driving
One of the most common offenses is using a mobile phone while driving. Drivers are often on the phone or reading messages, which distracts them from driving. Statistics show that reaction time while texting behind the wheel increases similarly to blood alcohol.
At the same time, a second of inattention is enough and misfortune is in the world. The mobile phone belongs in the holder, where the driver uses it only for navigation, not for writing messages. Although modern technologies allow hands-free calls, they are not without risk either. Any communication diverts attention from the situation on the road, which can lead to serious consequences.
Insufficient distance between vehicles
Czech roads are full of drivers who underestimate the safe distance. Insufficient distance increases the risk of an accident, especially in crisis situations. Sudden braking of the car in front often ends in an accident with fatal consequences.
A safe distance allows time to react and can save a life. Unfortunately, the rush and nervousness of drivers often completely ignore this principle. The ideal distance is at least two seconds from the car in front, which means more distance at higher speeds.
Ignoring turn signals
Drivers forget to signal a change of direction, which endangers other road users. Many accidents could be prevented by the correct use of turn signals. This simple action helps prevent accidents at intersections and highways.
Turn signals serve as a basic form of communication between drivers. If it is not clear where the car is going, the risk of a collision increases. Signaling is also an expression of respect for others on the road, which is the basis of safe driving.
Exceeding speed limits
Fast driving is one of the frequent causes of traffic accidents. Drivers often underestimate the risk of losing control of the vehicle. Especially in adverse weather conditions, speeding can be fatal.
A safe speed is not only about obeying the law, but also about adapting to the situation on the road. At higher speeds, the braking distance increases significantly, which increases the risk of an accident. It is not only about the life of the driver himself, but also about the protection of other road users who are endangered by fast driving.
Driving in the left lane
The left lane on the highway is for overtaking, yet many use it as a regular lane. This practice causes congestion and increases the risk of collisions. Respecting the rules helps to improve the flow of traffic.
Blocking the left lane creates unnecessary conflicts between drivers. Aggressive reactions occur that further increase the danger. Drivers should use the right lane for normal driving and the left lane only when overtaking is necessary.
Failure to adjust speed to road conditions
Some drivers ignore road conditions, weather or traffic density. Aggressive driving on wet or snowy roads often leads to tragic accidents. Keeping a safe speed is the basis of prevention. Failure to adjust speed most often has fatal consequences on highways or in the mountains. However, there is also a risk in cities, where a sudden obstacle, such as a pedestrian, requires an immediate response. A thoughtful driver always chooses the speed according to the current conditions.
Forgetting seat belts
Although seat belts are mandatory, many people still neglect them. There is a much higher risk of serious injury or death in a crash without seat belts. A seat belt is a simple tool that saves lives.
Seat belts should be an automatic reflex for anyone who gets into a car. Even for short distances, drivers and passengers should not underestimate this measure. It doesn’t matter how experienced the driver is, unpredictable situations can happen at any time.
Inappropriate overtaking
Some drivers risk overtaking in inappropriate places such as bends or sections with limited visibility. This bad habit is among the most dangerous and often ends in head-on collisions. Overtaking must be planned with regard to the safety of all road users. The driver must be sure that he has enough space and time to complete the maneuver. If there is any doubt as to whether it is safe to overtake, it is always better to wait for a more opportune moment.
Inattention behind the wheel
Drivers are often engaged in activities other than driving. Having a snack, tuning the radio or even watching the navigation takes your attention away from what’s happening on the road. Seconds of inattention can mean life or death. Modern technologies offer many ways to divert attention. Nevertheless, the driver should always keep his eyes on the road and his hands on the wheel. Every little moment of inattention can have irreversible consequences.
Failure to respect road traffic rules
Ignoring traffic signs and traffic lights is also a common offense. Running a red light or running a stop sign without stopping increases the risk of serious accidents. Respect for the rules protects all road users.
Every regular traffic participant should be an example to others. Following the rules is not only about the law, but also about showing consideration for others. Mutual respect on the roads creates a safe environment for everyone.
Driving requires one hundred percent attention
Bad habits behind the wheel are often underestimated, but their consequences can be tragic. Every driver has responsibility not only for himself, but also for others on the road. Compliance with the rules, concentration and respect for all road users are the keys to safe driving. Avoid carelessness and unnecessary mistakes – they can change your life in a single second.
Source: www.youtube.com, www.irozhlas.cz
