Check out these five accident prevention tips you can commit to in 2025.
Driving is an essential part of life for many Tulsa residents, but it’s also one of the most dangerous activities we do daily. According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Tulsa County recorded over 11,000 vehicle accidents in 2021 (resulting in 4,297 injuries). It’s clear that adopting safer practices is critical—not just for ourselves but for the community as a whole.
To kick off the new year, we’ve put together five resolutions that drivers and commuters alike can adopt. By committing to smarter, safer driving habits, we can make a profound impact—not just for ourselves, but for the entire Tulsa community.
1. Commit to Focused Driving
Distracted driving remains a significant issue, accounting for over 10% of car crashes in Tulsa County each year. It only takes a moment of distraction—checking a text, looking at your GPS, adjusting the radio, or even daydreaming—for a routine drive to turn into a life-altering event. These seemingly small actions can lead to devastating consequences, impacting not just the driver but also passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. Addressing this issue is crucial to improving road safety and reducing preventable accidents.
Resolution: Pledge to keep your attention on the road. Stow your phone, limit multitasking, and ensure any necessary adjustments (like setting your GPS or playlists) are done before you start driving. By staying focused, you actively contribute to accident prevention on the road and reduce the risk of becoming another statistic.
2. Prioritize Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Many accidents arise from preventable mechanical failures, which are often overlooked until it’s too late. Worn tires, for example, can significantly reduce traction, especially in wet, icy, or snowy conditions, increasing the likelihood of losing control and skidding. Regularly checking tire tread depth and pressure is essential to maintain proper grip on the road. Faulty brakes, on the other hand, may fail to respond during critical moments, making it difficult to stop in time and avoid collisions. Strange noises, delayed braking responses, or a spongy brake pedal are common signs that your braking system needs attention. Broken or malfunctioning headlights not only reduce your ability to see the road clearly at night but also make it harder for other drivers or pedestrians to see you, especially in low-light conditions. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as crossing paths unseen at intersections. Regular vehicle maintenance, including routine inspections, timely repairs, and addressing warning signs early, can go a long way in preventing these issues. By staying proactive, you can ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and contribute to safer conditions for everyone on the road.
Resolution: Commit to regular vehicle checkups in 2025. Routine inspections of tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels not only protect your investment but also ensure your car operates safely. The simple act of maintaining your vehicle could offset potential dangers and contribute to accident prevention down the road.
3. Understand and Respect Road Rules
City streets, which account for 44% of all injury-related wrecks in Tulsa, are often hotspots for accidents due to risky driving behaviors such as speeding, failure to yield the right of way, or ignoring important traffic signs and signals. These streets are typically high-traffic areas where drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians converge, creating a complex environment that increases the potential for collisions and injuries. Factors such as distracted driving, poorly designed intersections, and limited visibility can further contribute to the high accident rates. With so many individuals sharing the streets, even a momentary lapse in judgment or attention can have serious consequences, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and adherence to traffic laws in these busy areas.
Resolution: Resolve to brush up on traffic rules and stay informed about local road regulations. Adopting a safety-first mindset by obeying speed limits, using turn signals, and yielding appropriately will protect you and others. Remember, safe driving is courteous driving.
4. Be Weather-Wise
Tulsa experiences a variety of weather conditions that can challenge even the most skilled drivers. Heavy rain can lead to slick roads and standing water, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Dense fog often reduces visibility, making it harder to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road. During colder months, icy roads and snow create hazardous driving conditions, requiring extra caution to avoid skidding or losing control. These unpredictable weather patterns highlight the importance of staying alert and prepared while driving in Tulsa.
Resolution: Monitor the weather before heading out and adapt your driving accordingly. Slow down, maintain extra distance from the car ahead, and use your headlights when conditions demand. Preparing for weather-related hazards can help you avoid accidents during turbulent conditions.
5. Stay Educated and Practice Awareness
2025 is the perfect year to refresh your knowledge on driving best practices and make the roads safer for everyone. Many accidents happen because drivers underestimate the importance of defensive driving, such as anticipating potential hazards or maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. Staying updated on new safety technologies, like advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and following the latest recommendations can make a significant difference in preventing collisions. Taking the time to revisit these practices not only protects you but also ensures the safety of passengers, pedestrians, and fellow drivers.
Resolution: Commit to lifelong learning as a driver. Consider taking a defensive driving course or reading up on the latest advancements in automotive safety. Awareness increases your confidence on the road and helps you anticipate and avoid potential dangers.
Make Safety a Long-Term Commitment
These resolutions aren’t just for 2025. They’re habits to maintain for life to ensure you and others around you are safe every time you’re on the road. Together, Tulsa drivers and commuters can significantly reduce accident rates and create a safer community for all.
Here at Tulsa Accident Care Center, we’re committed to ensuring your well-being. While we hope you never need us, our experienced team is here to provide care and support if you’re involved in a vehicle accident.
Stay safe, stay informed, and drive smart. Here’s to a safer 2025!