The first month of 2014 has passed and we’ve seen numerous accidents on New Jersey and New York roadways. We’re still in the throes of a bitterly cold and snowy winter—weather that puts us all at risk of being involved in an auto accident. But the year is just starting. So, how can you be a safer driver in 2014?

1. Eliminate distractions. Distracted driving is more than just the hot talking point of the day. It’s a serious matter. A distracted driver is one who is focused on anything but the road. This could be lunch, applying make-up, or what the kids are doing in the backseat. Eliminating distractions begins with shutting off your phone while you’re driving. It involves talking with your children about allowing the driver to focus, grooming when you are parked, and eating when you arrive at your destination.
2. Slow down. Speeding remains one of the top causes of accidents in New York and New Jersey. Despite the knowledge of this, many people drive above the posted speed limit. A recent study revealed about four in five drivers know slowing down keeps them safer, but about 25 percent admit to speeding. Males and young drivers are most likely to speed. In 2014, allow yourself more time to get from place to place and don’t be in such a rush. Slowing down could save your life.
3. Get plenty of rest. Driving while drowsy is another leading cause of accidents. The NHTSA estimates drowsy driving causes about 100,000 accidents each and every year, and it’s likely these accidents are underreported. Make sure you get plenty of quality sleep every night. If you’re making a long road trip, account for rest stops in your drive time estimate. If you find yourself getting sleepy, pull over into a well-lit parking lot and take a nap. Follow your rest with a walk and get something to drink. Don’t let the road lull you to sleep.
4. Buckle Up. A high rate of compliance with laws requiring the wearing of safety belts has led New York to having the third lowest rate of auto accident fatalities in the nation.  Law enforcement agencies have used the “Click It or Ticket” campaign to get motorists to buckle up. But some drivers and passengers refuse to comply. In the event of an accident, you are far more likely to survive if you are wearing a seatbelt. Without a safety belt, you could be ejected and killed. It’s a simple safety precaution that takes a matter of seconds.
5. Maintain a safe vehicle. Keeping your car in good working order reduces your risk of an accident but also ensures that you aren’t stranded on the side of the road with unintended repair costs and the frustration of a day interrupted. Make sure you are following the car maker’s guidelines for maintenance and getting regular oil changes and inspections. Good tires and brakes are two areas that are easily overlooked but crucial in accident-avoidance. Investing the time and money into keeping your car safe will pay off in the long run.

These five tips are just a few ways you can stay safe in 2014. They are simple steps that can reduce your risk of an accident and help lessen the number of crashes on New York and New Jersey roads this year and beyond.