National Safety Month at Caliber 

June is National Safety Month. National Safety Month focuses attention on the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths. Each week in June addresses a specific safety issue to help educate and protect employees both at work and on the road. This year, the topics are: 

• Week 1: Safety Engagement 
• Week 2: Roadway Safety 
• Week 3: Risk Reduction 
• Week 4: Slips, Trips, and Falls 

The Importance of Roadway Safety 

Every day, millions of people rely on roadways to get to work, school, and other essential destinations. But have you ever stopped to consider just how crucial roadway safety is? Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and their consequences can be devastating. 

Seatbelts Save Lives 

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers is by wearing a seatbelt. Seatbelts distribute the force of a collision across stronger parts of the body, reducing severe injuries. From 1975 to 2017, seat belts are estimated to have saved 374,276 lives. 

Seatbelt Laws in the U.S. 

• Primary Seatbelt Laws: In 35 states and the District of Columbia, police can stop and cite drivers solely for not wearing a seatbelt. 
• Secondary Enforcement Laws: In 14 states, officers can only issue a seatbelt citation if the driver has been pulled over for another reason. 

Seatbelts are more than just a piece of fabric; they are a critical safety feature that has saved lives. Understanding the importance of seatbelts, the laws surrounding their use, and how they work can help you make safer choices on the road. 

The Dangers of Speeding 

Speeding is not just a minor infraction; it's a significant risk. Speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2022, killing 12,151, or an average of over 33 people on a typical day.  

Many drivers underestimate the dangers of speeding. It's more than just breaking the law; it's putting lives at risk. Speeding reduces the time you have to react to unexpected situations. It also increases the severity of crashes, leading to more significant injuries and fatalities. Understanding the dangers of speeding can help change driving habits. By driving within the speed limit, you contribute to a safer road environment for everyone. 

The Risks of Alcohol-Impaired Driving 

Alcohol-impaired driving remains one of the deadliest issues on U.S. roads. In 2022, 13,524 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes. Despite a slight decrease from previous years, the risks remain high. 

Immediate and Long-term Consequences 

• Accidents: Injuries and fatalities can result from alcohol-impaired driving. 
• Legal Repercussions: DUI charges come with severe legal and financial penalties. 
• Societal Impact: Increased healthcare costs and emotional trauma affect families and communities. 

Avoiding alcohol-impaired driving is crucial. Plan ahead, use ride-sharing services, or designate a sober driver to ensure safety. 

The Impact of Distracted Driving 

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in distractions—even when driving. But taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds can have devastating consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) distracted driving is dangerous, claiming 3,308 lives in 2022. 

Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road. This can happen due to various distractions like texting, eating, or even talking to passengers. Understanding what constitutes distracted driving is the first step in recognizing and mitigating its risks. 

Types of Distractions 

Distracted driving can be classified into three main types: 

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road. 
• Manual: Removing your hands from the steering wheel. 
• Cognitive: Losing focus on driving. 

Each type of distraction poses unique risks, and often, drivers experience more than one type at the same time. Distracted driving is a serious issue that affects us all. By understanding the risks, adopting safe driving habits, and leveraging technology, we can make a significant impact on road safety.  

Driving Safety Tips 

Effective safety begins with recognizing and correcting common driving mistakes. Here are five prevalent errors to avoid: 

1. Disregarding Speed Limits - Speeding reduces the time available to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of crashes. 
2. Improper Turn Signal Use - Failing to signal can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents. 
3. Tailgating - Following vehicles too closely leaves little room to stop in an emergency, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. 
4. Sudden Braking or Brake-checking - Unexpected braking can cause accidents, particularly in heavy traffic. 
5. Driving While Distracted or Fatigued - Distractions and fatigue significantly impair reaction times and decision-making abilities. 

For more detailed tips on avoiding these common mistakes, check out this helpful guide. 

Join Us in Celebrating National Safety Month 

National Safety Month offers an excellent opportunity to reflect on the importance of safety in our daily lives. At Caliber, we are dedicated to making safety a priority in everything we do. Being mindful of safety practices while driving can save lives and prevent injuries. 

Let's work together to make every month a safer month. Join us in celebrating National Safety Month and commit to prioritizing safety on the road. 

*Article and facts accurate as of publish date June 2024.