101 Critical Days of Summer: Motor Vehicle Safety - Statistics Published June 6, 2008 TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- Most mishaps during the 101 Critical Days of Summer are associated with motor vehicle travel. July 3 and 4 are the deadliest days of the year to drive In the U.S., deaths are closely related to the number of miles driven and August, the biggest month for driving, has the greatest number of crash deaths per day (132) Afternoons from 1500 to 1800 (the times most of us head home after a hard days work) are the most dangerous hours About one-third of all crashes happen at intersections. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) counted 8,814 fatal crashes at or near intersections in 1999, about 23 percent of all fatal crashes in the nation. Intersection crashes account for more than 45 percent of all reported crashes, and 21 percent of fatalities. Driving even a few miles over the speed limit increases the chances that you'll lose control of the vehicle. It increases braking distance, reduces the effectiveness of safety belts and other safety devices, and dramatically increases the severity of injuries if there is a crash. Every 10 mph traveled over 50 mph doubles the risk of death if a crash occurs. People who are thrown from cars are 25 times more likely to be killed than if they had been held securely in their seats. Further, in the unlikely event your car catches fire or is submerged, seatbelts can keep you from getting "knocked out" and greatly improve your chances of escape. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for those ages 3 to 33. AND How Not to Become One Watch for other vehicles changing lanes abruptly. Sideswipe collisions are common around intersections. Stay out of other drivers' "blind spots" where they can't see you in the rear- and side-view mirrors. Maintain a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Rear-end crashes are also very common near intersections. Don't adjust your radio or stereo, dial your cell phone, or be distracted by other things when entering an intersection. Watch for cross-traffic. Running a red light, intentionally or not, is a leading cause of intersection crashes. Remember, posted speed limits apply under ideal driving conditions. You need to slow down in conditions such as heavy rain, a construction zone, or a congested roadway. Seatbelts, like safety seats for children, can make a life and death difference if you or your loved ones are involved in an automobile accident. Use your seatbelt. The life you save may be your own. Defensive Driving Is Courteous Driving Though everyone who drives has probably heard about defensive driving, it's equally important to drive courteously. By remembering the following, you can avoid getting into situations that jeopardize you and other drivers. Respect the speed limit. You may not get where you're going at all by going faster. Follow all traffic signs and indicators. Respect crosswalks. Allow others to pass you by moving to right lanes or even pulling over. Use your turn signal to indicate that you want to change lanes. Maintain plenty of space between your car and the vehicle ahead. Do not yell or make obscene gestures at other drivers or pedestrians. Use your horn and high beams sparingly. Observe posted parking regulations and use only one parking spot for your car. Be polite to other drivers even when they are not polite to you. Keep your cool in traffic incidents and accidents.