CITY DRIVING 

Driving in traffic requires different precautions than driving on open roads. While long-distance drivers face fatigue as a major hazard, city drivers face unique risks from frequent stops, tight spaces, and heavy traffic. This discussion highlights common causes of city driving accidents and how to prevent them.

Many workers spend long hours on the road, even if the total mileage is low. Delivery drivers, couriers, salespeople, and utility workers often make frequent stops, increasing exposure to potential accidents. Every hour on the road increases the chance of a collision.

Speed is a major factor in accidents. City streets typically have speed limits under 25 mph, and some areas post limits as low as 5 or 10 mph. These limits are carefully selected to reduce accident risk. Maintaining a safe speed gives you more time to observe your surroundings and react to cyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles. On rainy, foggy, or snowy days, reduce your speed further.

When stopping or parking, take care not to block traffic or create blind spots. Always look both ways before stepping into the road or onto a sidewalk to avoid collisions with vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians.

When loading or unloading your vehicle, ensure your load does not block your vision. It’s safer to make multiple trips with smaller loads than to overload yourself. This also helps prevent trips, slips, or falls over objects in your path.