Auto accidents claim the lives of many children every year. As such, you need to be extra careful when you are driving in the company of your kids. According to the 2016 statistics, 128,000 children sustained critical injuries due to car accidents while 723 other children died. Read on this website to learn some essential strategies to help you avoid these mistakes that cause accidents.

Your first step should be to avoid distractions. Most parents are aware that the drive-throughs and the use of cell phones when driving with your children is one of the factors that must be avoided. Nevertheless, it is essential that you let your children understand the importance of avoiding commenting on issues, talking to you, asking questions, and talking too much as your guard might be lowered. Consider keeping a pen and a notebook in your car so your kids can write the questions and comments they would like you to address once you are not behind the wheel.

Second, avoid driving while you are tired. Scientific studies show that your depth perception, skills, reaction time, and reasoning is very slow when you are tired. If it is necessary that you drive when tired, ask a relative for driving assistance. Let your relatives know that you need a designated driver since you want to travel, and it is not possible to drive the kids while fatigued. Be assured that your relatives will gladly drive you to their destination or even give you a free ride.

Third, take your vehicle for maintenance regularly. Consider visiting your mechanic each month so he can determine if it has a problem that needs being addressed. A mechanic has a higher probability of detecting a flaw in your vehicle before it reaches a critical level. Having the issue fixed will help avoid either getting in a serious accident or the car breaking down during the journey and leaving you stranded.

Fourth, remember to drive defensively. Although you might be careful on the road, you will meet distracted and negligent drivers on the road. In case you realize there is a reckless driver in front of you, slow down to let the car go ahead. In the worst case scenario, consider changing your direction of travel to protect your family from a reckless driver.

Fifth, allow a gap of at least two-second gap from the driver ahead. Instead of trying to keep a safe distance, ensure you maintain a speed of at least two second behind the driver. Besides, the duration ensures that you will not cause a rear collision.

Finally, ensure all sides are clear before entering an intersection. Whether you have a green light or a right of way, caution will avoid collision with inattentive and distracted drivers. It is wise that you arrive late at your destination than fail to reach the place safely.