A new report from AAA shows reckless driving behaviors increased from 2020 to 2021 following three years of declines.
The new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows a rise in risky behaviors including speeding, red-light running, drowsy driving and driving impaired due to cannabis or alcohol.
The most significant increase was in the number of drivers who admitted to getting behind the wheel after drinking enough that they felt they were over the legal limit, which was up 24%.
“The reversal in the frequency of U.S. drivers engaging in risky driving behavior is disturbing,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “While drivers acknowledge that certain activities like speeding and driving impaired are not safe, many engage in these activities anyway. This reckless attitude can be life-altering.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2021. That number was up 10.5% from the 2020 estimate of 38,824 fatalities.
“Traffic patterns have largely normalized since the start of the pandemic, yet traffic fatalities are at their highest level in nearly two decades,” Waiters continued. “We can reverse this trend if drivers slow down, avoid distractions and never drive impaired.”
Aside from avoiding reckless driving behaviors, AAA had several other tips for those on the roadways. For example, they recommend making sure you have adequate insurance coverage.
"If your policy does not include uninsured motorist coverage or has low minimal liability limits, you could be stuck paying some big bills out of pocket," a release from AAA reads.
Also, AAA recommends drivers keep an emergency kit with first-aid and roadside visibility items, like a flashlight, in their car. You should also have a copy of your proof of insurance in your glove box.
If a crash occurs, check for injuries, call 911, and remain at the scene. If no one is injured and the vehicle is drivable, turn on the hazard lights and safely move the vehicle to an emergency lane or parking area. If the vehicle can't be moved, turn on the hazard lights and go to a safe spot away from moving traffic.
More information is available here.
