American Property Casualty Insurance Association: Road Rules – Safety This Summer
"Summer travel will look very different this year. The new normal calls for social distancing and face masks, but it must also include a renewed commitment to auto safety. COVID-19 could be unknowingly adding more dangers on the roads for motorists and pedestrians."
"The summer months already are considered some of the most dangerous on America's roads. For example, nationwide, more than 8,000 people died in crashes involving teen drivers from 2008 to 2018 during the "100 Deadliest Days," the period between
APCIA will issue a series of Auto Safety messages over the summer months to support drivers and encourage proper safety precautions. APCIA encourages drivers to make safety a priority when they get behind the wheel.
Watch for pedestrian and cyclists: According to a 2020 report from the
Follow the speed limit: High speeds can significantly increase the severity of a crash. According to the
Media reports also stated that authorities saw an increase in excessive speeds primarily on highways (https://coloradosun.com/2020/04/17/colorado-drivers-speeding-coronavirus-cannonball-run/), but also on city streets.
Eliminate distractions: Removing your eyes from the road for just two seconds can double the risk of a crash, according the
Talk to your teen new drivers. Remind them that distracted driving and phone usage have no place behind the wheel. Set an example on your own behalf by preparing in advance for road trips, reacquainting yourself with state regulations, and eliminating distractions. Graduations and summer plans may have been disrupted by the pandemic, but that is no excuse to turn milestone celebrations into unfortunate tragedy.
Don't drive under the influence and plan ahead: According to a survey by research firm Nielsen, on-line alcohol sales during the COVID-19 pandemic were up as much as 200 percent. Without exception, when making plans, designate a driver and always refrain from operating a vehicle if you have used alcohol or other substances.
Share the roads safely with large trucks: As the demand for essential items increases, truckers and commercial carriers are on the road keeping goods moving and supporting the supply chain during COVID-19. Drivers of passenger vehicles should share the road safely, and remember that trucks have blind spots, make wider turns, and require additional stopping distance.
For drivers involved in a crash, APCIA recommends calling your auto insurer as soon as possible. Insurers have implemented contingency and continuity plans to protect their employees and reduce service interruptions. Insurers are:
* Adopting new technologies and remote solutions to minimize any interruptions in service and paying claims, such as using virtual inspection technology to complete damage inspections.
* Prepared to be as flexible as possible within the terms of the policy, should there be any delays in vehicle repairs for reasons that are out of the control of the insurer, vehicle owner, or repair facility.
* Limiting personal contact to protect their customers, employees, as well as collision repair facility personnel.
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