Before you step behind the wheel of a car, there are several safety precautions you should take to make your trip on the road as safe as possible. Kona Community Hospital (KCH) in Kealakekua, HI, says car crashes are one of the leading causes of accidental fatalities in the United States, with more than six million occurring annually. Additionally, Kona Community Hospital says the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day mark some of the most dangerous times to be behind the wheel.

To help keep you as safe as possible this summer — and all year long — Kona Community Hospital says to consider these top five safe driving tips:

• Don’t Text & Drive: Texting and driving is extremely dangerous. In fact, in 2011 nearly 1.3 million auto collisions involved driver cell phone use. Texting while driving increases your chances of getting in an accident by 23%, so put your phone away until you’ve reached your destination.
• Avoid Driving When Tired: If you’re feeling tired, think twice about getting behind the wheel. Driving sleepy can pose a serious safety hazard to yourself and others on the road. Avoid driving until you’ve gotten plenty of rest. And, if you have a road trip planned this summer, pull over often for a break, or switch drivers every few hours.
• Minimize Distractions: Keep distractions to a minimum while driving. Don’t eat or do your makeup while behind the wheel, and if you travel with pets, be sure they are secured in the back seat. You should also wait to make phone calls or enter information into your GPS until you’ve pulled over to park.

• Buckle Up: Seatbelts have proven to save lives even in the most dangerous crashes, so always be sure to buckle up before you put your car into drive. You should check to make sure any passengers in your vehicle are wearing their seatbelts as well.
• Drive Sober: Drunk driving is a sure way to get into a car accident, and it can cost you your life and the lives of others on the road. Be responsible and never step behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. Call a cab, phone a friend for a ride, or sleep it off before you get in your car.

You can visit the Kona Community Hospital website for a wealth of resources and local community news. You can also explore the health care services they provide, including emergency, surgical, rehabilitative, maternity services, and more by visiting Kona Community Hospital online.