Staying alert on the road is incredibly important for keeping yourself and others safe. A single moment of distraction or a failure to notice something could be catastrophic for you and the people around you.
Beyond the question of safety, there’s also the law. Driving recklessly or irresponsibly could get you arrested and charged with the crime of reckless driving, even if you were lucky enough that no one was hurt. Possible consequences for reckless driving in Georgia can include significant fines and even some time in jail.
What is Reckless Driving?
While the exact laws against reckless or unsafe driving will vary, every state has some version of the same rule. The law in Georgia says that reckless driving refers to anytime a person driving exhibits a careless or neglectful disregard for others’ safety and is a misdemeanor.
This generally includes any possibly dangerous behavior on the road. Here are a few of the things that could qualify as reckless driving:
- Racing other cars
- Tailgating
- Aggressive passing and weaving through traffic
- Ignoring street signs and traffic signals
- Driving at an unsafe speed
- Driving while drunk
- Texting while driving
- Falling asleep at the wheel
Staying Safe on the Road
Many people drive every day as part of their routine. However, it becomes unsafe if you see driving as such a routine thing that you stop paying close attention or stop taking it seriously. Driving a car inherently involves danger, and it’s your responsibility as a driver to be cautious and alert at all times. Here are a few safe driving tips to keep in mind that can help you prevent reckless driving:
Pull Over to Use Your Phone
Avoid distractions if at all possible. If you need to text or call someone, simply wait until you arrive or pull over to do it. Your friends can wait to hear back from you.
Plan to Leave Early
Don’t hurry. Plan your schedule to give yourself extra time to get to your destination. If you’re always running late for work and having to speed in the morning, try waking up even five to ten minutes earlier.
Get Enough Sleep
If you’re tired or starting to fall asleep if you sit still, you are not alert enough to drive. Even if you don’t fall asleep on the road, being tired will slow down your reaction time as well. Pull over immediately for a snack or to rest if you ever find yourself falling asleep while driving.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Always plan ahead. If you want to drink, make sure you’ve planned a way for you to get home at the end of the night without getting behind the wheel. Don’t forget that you can always leave your car someplace and find another way home instead. There’s no shame in coming back for your car the next day.
Stop Multitasking
Don’t use your commuting time as more morning preparation time. You should be focusing on the road, not putting on make-up or eating breakfast. Either do it at home or wait until you get to your destination. Staying safe and doing your part as a responsible driver is more important than anything else you could be doing in your car on the way to work.
