Traffic & Road Safety
Unsafe driving behaviors contribute to most motor vehicle accidents. It is easy to become complacent when driving since it is an activity that we engage in so frequently.
Behavior #1: Distracted Driving Distracted driving is a serious problem on today’s roadways. Cell phones are the most significant contributor to drivers not paying attention when behind the wheel. While wireless options, such as Bluetooth or a wireless headset, make using cell phones safer while driving, even just talking on the phone can lead to distractions. It is easy for your mind to drift toward the conversation instead of remain on the road ahead. Other distracting activities include eating, drinking, looking at a GPS, interacting with passengers, applying makeup, looking at surroundings, etc. It is vital to focus your attention on the road and what is occurring around your vehicle when driving to avoid allowing distractions to cause an accident.
Behavior #2: Speeding Speeding is a contributing factor to accidents every single day. Speeding leads to severe accidents due to forces experienced at the time of impact. Always follow the posted speed limits. Adjust your speed to the environmental conditions and traffic conditions around you to ensure your safety.
Behavior #3: Driving Too Fast for Conditions As mentioned above, speeding does not just include driving over a posted speed limit. Environmental conditions and traffic conditions may require drivers to drive well below the posted speed limit to ensure safety. Common environmental conditions that can require drivers to slow down include sun glare, snow, ice, rain, fog, etc. Adjust your driving speed for the conditions that are present.
Behavior #4: Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs Traffic signals and signs are placed along the roadway for a reason. Traffic signals help safely control the flow of traffic and traffic signs communicate vital information. Going through a traffic signal, such as a red light, HAWK signal, or stop sign, can lead to a severe accident.
Tuesday Traffic Tips!
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Vacation season is here, and Davidson Police want you to arrive at your destination safely. If you're driving, be sure to take breaks- get out and stretch your legs, grab some water, and give yourself a small rest. Driving for extended periods of time can take a toll! Travel safely, Davidson!
Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Reduced visibility: When driving in the rain, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. It's important to keep your vehicle's windshields- front and back- clean on the inside and the outside. Stay safe, Davidson!
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
Remember to watch for vehicles entering the road from curbs (parked in parallel and reverse angle spaces), driveways, and businesses! Don't assume you'll be given the right-of-way. Stay alert, Davidson!
Tuesday, July 25, 2023
Share the roads: Safety Culture is a community effort! Remain alert and on the watch for parked cars, pedestrians, and cyclists. Behind the wheel, be sure to check all three mirrors frequently! Riding on two wheels, ensure you are visible and abide by traffic rules. Pedestrians, stay alert and be mindful of surrounding traffic signals. Stay safe, Davidson!
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
STOP. LOOK. WAIT: When you’re driving:
- - Yield to people in crosswalks
- -Always look for pedestrians before backing up or turning
- -Pass cyclists with plenty of space
- -Be prepared for cyclists to take the whole lane- it is their right if they need it!
Tuesday, August 8, 2023
STOP. LOOK. WAIT: When you're walking or running:
- Use the sidewalk! If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic & as far away from traffic as possible
- Look for motorists in all directions – including those turning left or right or backing up
- Obey all pedestrian traffic signals
- At night, walk in well-lit areas, carry a flashlight or headlamp, &/or wear visible/reflective attire
- Cross the street in designated crosswalks and where you have the best view of traffic
Tuesday, August 15, 2023
STOP. LOOK. WAIT: When you're wheelin' around town:
- Wear a helmet! (GS 20-172)
- Obey all traffic signals & stop at ‘STOP’ signs and red lights.
- Use front & rear lights and reflectors at night – BE VISIBLE!
- Use hand signals to indicate when turning
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Practice defensive driving: Defensive driving means being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards before they occur. This includes leaving plenty of space between your vehicle and others on the road, keeping your eyes on the road at all times, and obeying traffic laws. Remember to STOP. LOOK. WAIT before using designated crosswalks throughout town.
Tuesday, August 29, 2023
Avoid distractions: Distracted driving claims thousands of lives annually - keep your eyes on the road. That means never (even at 25 mph!) text, eat, channel surf, or turn around to chat with folks in the backseat. Keep movements to a minimum and utilize hands-free accessories when available. Stay safe, Davidson!
Tuesday, September 5, 2023
Don't tailgate: A pre-game BBQ is a lot of fun, but following too closely is a leading cause of rear-end accidents – Don’t tailgate when driving!
Remember the 3-second rule: Pick an object on the road ahead (like a sign, tree, or overpass), and when the vehicle in front of you passes the object slowly count "one-one thousand, two-one thousand, three-one thousand." If you reach the object before completing the count, you're following too closely. Stay safe, Davidson!
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
BE SURE YOU ARE SAFE & SECURE. Secure all loose items in your car, including furry or feathered friends. If a vehicle travels at 55 mph & then stops abruptly, anything not fully secured will continue at the same speed (55mph) inside the vehicle! Anything left loose in the vehicle becomes a hazardous projectile object and a danger to you and your pets. Stay safe, Davidson!
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Buckle up! No matter where you’re headed or how long you'll be in the car, take a second to buckle up. If you’ve got children (of any age) in the car, be sure that everyone's seatbelt is latched before driving. Stay safe, Davidson!