Distracted and impaired driving are the leading causes of traffic accidents and fatalities. This category covers phone use, DUI/DWI laws, fatigue, and other factors that diminish driving ability.
Texting while driving is illegal in most states and increases your crash risk by 23 times. Even hands-free phone use significantly reduces your attention. The safest option is to put your phone away while driving.
Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time even at low levels. In all states, a BAC of 0.08% is the legal limit for drivers 21 and older (lower for commercial drivers and those under 21). Know your state’s implied consent laws and the penalties for refusal.