Top 10 Dangerous Driving Myths

Why believing in them can cause you – or your loved one’s – life.

Learning to drive is like a rite of passage: often full of misconstrued advice and urban legends. While several are just harmless opinions, others can be highly dangerous – especially on the highway. Know which driving myths to avoid, in order to prevent car accidents.

Myth #1: It’s okay to speed a little if you’re in a hurry.

There’s no such thing as ‘safe speeding’ or ‘speeding a little bit’. If you heard that someone got off due to some excuse, that’s rare (and likely illegal). Do yourself and others a favor by sticking to the speed limit in your area.

Myth #2: It’s possible to fool a speed camera!

Never underestimate modern technology. Whether it’s dark, snowing, or there’s a heavy downpour – number plates will and shall be recorded.

Myth #3: You can’t be penalized for speeding on a rental car.

Maybe you could have gotten away with this in previous years, but that’s highly unlikely today. If you don’t pay for the ticket yourself, the rental car company will be contacted and you may pay additional fees for traffic violations.

Myth #4: You can’t get a ticket for driving too slow.

Yes you can. Depending on the laws in your state, driving too slow is actually an offense because you impede traffic or become a road obstruction. If you plan on driving slowly, make sure you are on the right-hand side OR you need to turn left. Otherwise, move it.

Myth #5: License plates don’t need to be visible.

It actually depends on your state. Some don’t require front and/or end license plates; while others like California, oblige its citizens to have both front AND rear license plate numbers. When in doubt, just don’t give a traffic enforcer reason to give you a ticket.

Myth #6: It’s okay to drive tired as long as I’m not drunk.

A big FALSE. Driving when you’re tired is just as deadly as driving intoxicated. If your car suddenly drifts to the other lane for just a split second, you may find yourself in a head-on collision. Don’t risk you – or your family’s – safety. Change drivers or stop to sleep.

Myth #7: You can use the phone while driving if you have Bluetooth.

While the DMV recommends this as a safer alternative, experts still warn of distractions while driving simply because it takes your mind off the road. Give your 100% focus on the task ahead to prevent auto accidents.

Myth #8: It’s okay to wear my seatbelt under my shoulder.

NO. Unless you have a valid medical condition, seatbelts should be worn over the shoulder. All passengers should also be buckled up, unless inside a cab or a limo, OR depending on your own state rules.

Myth #9: Reposition items in your car for maximum airbag protection.

Car manufacturers generally take safety into consideration when they design their vehicles. Moving items around is not only impractical (and could void your warranty), but could also pose a risk if you position an item incorrectly. Remember that these things become deadly projectiles in the event of a collision.

Myth #10: You can fool a breathalyzer by hyperventilating.

NO. Similar urban legends such as copper coins in your mouth or drinking plenty of water will not fool a breathalyzer. Avoid using mouth wash as well as that contains alcohol, which can affect a breathalyzer’s results. Your safest bet? Don’t drink and drive.

Don’t just believe anything you hear or read. Investigate, question, and use your best judgment. When in doubt, seek proper counsel from experts. Don’t be afraid to go against popular driving myths – especially if you know that it can endanger you or your family.

Reduce car accidents by following road rules.

For any questions regarding auto –related incidents, don’t hesitate to contact a legal expert immediately.

Stay safe. Bust dangerous driving myths.