Every time you get behind the wheel of your car or truck, you are operating a major piece of machinery that requires complete focus. Too many myths surround driving, many of which can easily result in serious if not fatal accidents. Major collisions also take up significant road space because of vehicular debris as well as police cars, ambulances, and towing services, resulting in traffic slowdowns.

5 Driving Myths Debunked

1. Hands-Free Devices Are Okay to Use While Driving

Hands-free devices may allow drivers to keep both hands on the wheel while talking to friends, family, and business associates, but they do not eliminate distracted driving dangers. Drivers looking forward as they speak on any type of cell phone may not see up to 50% of their surroundings, as the brain’s ability to process moving images decreases.

2. Speeding Is Fine When You’re in a Hurry

Speeding because you are late to work or any other event is never a good idea. There is no such thing as safe speeding, as it decreases your ability to successfully navigate curves or drive around objects in the road. It also takes much more time to slow down.

3. Driving Slowly Increases Safety

Driving too slowly can be as dangerous as speeding. It is common among elderly drivers with slower reflexes as well as inexperienced drivers and those looking at their phones. Slow driving disrupts the flow of traffic and often irritates and distracts other drivers.

4. Driving Tired Is No Big Deal

Operating a vehicle while extremely tired can cause you to drift into another lane — and into another car or truck. Falling asleep behind the wheel is another possibility with serious if not fatal consequences because of collisions with other motorists and any animals on the road such as deer.

5. Having One Or Two Drinks Is Not Drunk Driving

Alcohol impairs your reaction time, something that can prove deadly when you are on the road. Its depressive properties can also make you feel tired and therefore less likely to stay focused. Having one or two drinks may keep you under the legal limit; however, it can still affect your driving. This is especially true if you have not eaten much that day or were consuming stronger beverages.

 

If bad driving behavior gets you in an accident, contact Mt. Burney Towing. They’ve served Shasta County, CA, for over 27 years, providing unmatched vehicle recovery and towing services. No matter what your reason for requiring a tow truck, you can count on this family-owned company to arrive at your location quickly and provide the services necessary for getting back on the road. Call (503) 335-3333 to request towing services or visit the website for more information.