Did you know there were more than 133,000 people injured or killed as a result of road accidents in the year ending June 2023? The roads remain perilous for drivers with accidents appearing around almost every corner.
The number of registered vehicles has now reached over 41 million in the UK, meaning more cars than ever are on the roads. This will only increase the chances of collisions, so knowing how to avoid them is vital – especially if you’re travelling with a young family.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your children safer when you’re driving them around and our guide will take a look at some of them. Plus, we’ll look at what you can do if you’re, unfortunately, involved in a collision with them. Continue reading to find out more.
Safer family driving practices
There’s plenty to do before and during your road trips to make the journey safer for you and the kids. Some of the best safety practices include:
Pre-departure car checks
You should be confident that your car is working as it should before you set off. There are plenty of components that could put you in danger, so we recommend checking the following before departure:
- Tyre pressure and tread depths
- Fluid levels
- Lights
- Brakes
Proper driving technique
Lazy driving can put you in danger, so driving as you were taught when learning is a must. Try to keep two hands on the wheel for total control, stick to speed limits and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Minimise distractions
Distractions are a leading cause of accidents and there can be plenty when driving with kids. Try to keep them entertained, so they aren’t constantly trying to get your attention.
Other ways to minimise distraction include staying off your mobile and only using your infotainment system for directions to your destination.
Avoiding peak traffic times
Sometimes accidents are caused by other reckless drivers, which won’t be your fault. You can reduce the chance of this happening by travelling outside of peak times. With fewer cars on the road, the chances of an accident should be lower.
What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident with my children?
While we hope our driving tips should keep you and the kids safe, you can still be involved in an incident that wasn’t your fault. If this does happen, here’s what you can do to deal with it:
- Seek immediate medical attention for you and the kids
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Take photos of the car if it’s safe to do so
- Consider speaking to car accident claim solicitors to get you the compensation you may be entitled to
- Ensure everyone has enough time to recover from the injury
Thanks for sharing this informative post. Safety is paramount when traveling with children, and this post offers practical tips and advice to help parents ensure a secure and comfortable journey for their little ones. From proper car seat installation to minimizing distractions, each suggestion emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to protect children while on the road. It’s fantastic to see resources like these that empower parents with valuable information to enhance their family’s safety during travel.
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This is such a valuable post! Ensuring our children’s safety during drives is paramount, and your tips are incredibly practical and easy to follow. I particularly appreciate how you emphasize the importance of car seat safety and regular maintenance checks. Your writing is clear, engaging, and filled with actionable advice. Thank you for sharing such important information and for your excellent writing style. Looking forward to more insightful posts from you!
Thanks,
yashika
Important tips on keeping children safe during drives! Your advice is crucial for every parent. A must-read for ensuring kids’ safety on the road.
Thanks for these essential safety tips! It’s crucial to stay vigilant and prepared, especially with kids in the car. Your advice on minimizing distractions and pre-departure checks is incredibly helpful.