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Injury Prevention
Motor Vehicle Crashes
Motor vehicle crashes remain
a leading cause of TVF&R emergency responses. These safety tips will help
your family stay safer on the road
Drive the Speed Limit and Leave Enough
Distance Between Cars
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exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions
– is a factor in most fatal crashes.
Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability
to respond to unexpected road hazards, increases the distance needed for
breaking, and increases the severity of a crash.
Motorists that follow too close to the
vehicle in front are also at risk of a crash. Maintain a following
distance of at least two seconds between your car and the car ahead.
Use Seat Belts and Child Safety Seats
- Seat belts provide the greatest protection
against ejection, one of the worst things that can happen to a person in
a crash - 75% of individuals who
are ejected from a car are killed!
- Protect your children by
installing child safety seats and using them properly. Oregon
law requires that children up to 6 years and 60 lbs. be properly
restrained while riding in a vehicle.
Reduce Distractions - cell phone, food
and drinks, and the radio
Never Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol
or Drugs
- Driving while intoxicated is one of the
most frequently committed crimes in the United States. Intoxicated
drivers kill thousands of people each year. Do not get behind the wheel
if you have been drinking. Call a
taxi or friend.
Pay Careful Attention During Inclement
Weather
- Drivers should take additional precautions
during inclement weather. Rain, ice or snow can impact stopping distance
and reduce visibility.
- Maintain good visibility by removing ice
and snow from all windows before driving.
- Turn on your headlights so motorists can
see you.
Maintain Your Vehicle
- Keep your battery charged.
- Check the tread on your tires and replace
if necessary.
- Carry traction devices if traveling in
inclement weather.
- Keep no-freeze fluid in the washer
reservoir.
- Check antifreeze levels.
Carry Emergency Supplies
- Warning devices (flares)
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Fire extinguisher
- Blankets (or floor mats and newspapers)
Other Web Resources:
More
Injury Prevention Links (multiple
pages)
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