If you work outside of your home, you are probably no stranger to stressful commutes. Busy roads are dangerous and can be scary.
Knowing when the most dangerous time to drive is can help you make better decisions to protect yourself.
When is the most dangerous time to drive?
Studies have shown that the two hours between 5 pm and 7 pm are one of the most dangerous times to drive. During the congestion of rush hour, you may be feeling tired and in a hurry to get home. This combination leads to less alertness and more traffic accidents. According to NHTSA, drowsy driving contributes significantly to the number of fatal accidents in the United States, with drowsy driving causing 633 deaths in 2020.
How can you stay safe?
If you cannot avoid driving during rush hour, it is important to keep a vigilant eye open for other drivers who may be experiencing drowsiness or are displaying risky driving behaviors to avoid dangerous interactions that may lead to injury. You should also make good choices to protect yourself and other drivers before getting behind the wheel. The most obvious solution to help you avoid driving drowsy is to simply get more sleep. More than just being important for overall health, this can action save your life on the road. You should also avoid alcohol, as it has a sedative effect. Similarly, do not drive if you are taking a medication known to induce drowsiness. Regardless of the time of day or how you feel, always wear your seatbelt.
If you must be on the road during peak rush hour times, take these precautions to protect yourself and other drivers.