At the start of the year, many people set personal goals—whether it’s shedding a few pounds or hitting the gym more often. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has its own set of resolutions aimed at one critical goal: preventing car accidents.
“Safer driving not only protects you but also helps safeguard your loved ones and everyone on the road,” the NHTSA explains. “This year, consider making a commitment to safer driving with resolutions that can have a lasting impact.”
By committing to better driving habits, you can help reduce the risk of crashes and make the roads safer for everyone. But when accidents happen due to someone else’s negligence, knowing your legal options can make all the difference in your recovery.
10 Safe Driving Tips for 2025
To help drivers build safer habits, the NHTSA has released 10 essential tips aimed at reducing accidents and keeping everyone safe on the road this year:
1. Wear Your Seatbelt
Seatbelts save lives. In Delaware, for example, 35% of people who died in car crashes in 2022 were not wearing a seatbelt, according to NHTSA data. Always buckle up, even if you’re only driving a short distance—many accidents happen close to home.
2. Make Sure Children Are in the Right Seat
If you have young children, ensure their car seats are installed correctly and that they are in the appropriate seat for their age and size. Children under 13 years old are typically safest in the back seat.
3. Always Drive Sober
Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents. In 2022, 49 people in Delaware alone lost their lives in drunk driving crashes. If you’ve been drinking, call a cab or have a sober driver take you home—your decision could save lives.
4. Focus on Driving
Eliminate distractions by putting your phone away and avoiding other activities like eating or adjusting controls while driving. Safe driving—especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic—requires your full attention.
5. Obey Speed Limits
Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the risk of severe accidents. It’s especially dangerous at night or in bad weather. Stick to posted speed limits and adjust your speed as needed to match road conditions.
6. Never Drive Drowsy
Fatigue is a major contributor to crashes nationwide. Missing even a few hours of sleep increases your chances of an accident. If you’re struggling to keep your eyes open, pull over and take a break.
7. Share the Road
Be mindful of other road users, including motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Give cyclists plenty of room, stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, and be especially cautious near schools or parks.
8. Look for Flashing Lights
When you see emergency vehicles, police cars, or construction crews with flashing lights, slow down and move over. It’s not just courteous—it’s the law in Delaware and across all 50 states. These laws protect roadside workers and first responders.
9. Talk to Teen Drivers
Teen drivers are more likely to take risks due to inexperience. If you have a teen driver in your family, emphasize the importance of safe habits, including avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits, and always wearing a seatbelt.
10. Check for Recalls
Vehicle recalls can affect everything from airbags to brake systems. To stay safe, check for recalls twice a year by visiting www.NHTSA.gov/Recalls and entering your VIN or license plate number.
The Impact of Safe Driving Resolutions
While resolutions may seem simple, the collective impact of safer driving habits can be significant. According to the NHTSA, even small changes—like wearing your seatbelt every time or waiting to respond to a text until you’ve parked—can save thousands of lives each year.
By prioritizing safety behind the wheel, drivers can:
- Reduce fatalities: Safer driving habits directly contribute to fewer deadly crashes on busy highways and local streets.
- Lower injury rates: Accidents caused by speeding, distractions, or impaired driving often result in severe injuries. Preventing risky behaviors can drastically reduce injury rates.
- Set an example: Whether for family members, friends, or young drivers, committing to safe driving sets a positive example that can influence others on the road.
However, even the safest drivers can’t control the actions of others. If you’re involved in an accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver, knowing your legal options is essential to protecting your future. A car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident
Even when you make safe driving a priority, accidents caused by reckless drivers can still happen. The aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming—medical bills, lost income, and the emotional toll can quickly add up. When someone else’s negligence turns your life upside down, you need experienced legal support to help you move forward.
At Gill, Welsh, and Chamberlain, P.A., our Delaware car accident lawyers know how to take on insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve. With a proven track record of success, we’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you secure the financial recovery you need for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Don’t face the aftermath of an accident alone. Contact Gill, Welsh, and Chamberlain, P.A. today to schedule your free case review. We’re here to provide the trusted legal guidance you need every step of the way.
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