Driving Safely in Austin Texas
I posted a blog in June of last year entltiled, "Jim's Top 10 Austin Traffic Rules." One of the 10 rules said, "Watch out for the crazies on the road! Yes, Austin has them, too. They may be in a hurry, putting on their make-up, or talking on the phone, but they still can be hazardous to your health. Drive defensively." This advice still applies! My wife and I "dodged" several fast, lane-changing crazies on Mopac in the past week.
A report issued this week on MyFoxAustin.com says, "Austin drivers are being ranked among the worst in the country, according to the fifth annual Allstate Best-Drivers' survey." This report says that there were 15,000 collisions in Austin in 2008. Wow! The primary collision is the rear-end type, caused by all the bumper-to-bumper, stop-and-go traffic in Austin. Other factors reported were the used of cell phones, the growing pracice of text-messaging while driving, and the influx of visitors for special events that are so popular in Austin! 
Allstate's summary report includes these safe-driving tips:
Minimize distractions - Engaging in any other activity while driving - talking on your cell phone, text messaging, changing a radio station, putting on makeup - is a distraction.
Be aware of road conditions - Ice, snow, fog, rain - all of these weather conditions require extra caution and slower speeds.
Leave a safe distance between your car and others around you - Maintain at least one car length space between your car and the vehicle in front of you for every 10 miles per hour of speed.
Steer clear of road rage - Reduce stress on the road by allowing plenty of time for travel, planning your route in advance, and altering your schedule or route to avoid congested roads. Remember not to challenge aggressive drivers and stay as far away from them as possible.
Maintenance matters - Ultimately, safety also depends on the maintenance of one's car. Ensure that car brakes, exhaust system, tires, lights, battery, and hoses are in good working order.Austin is a great place to live! Keeping ourselves ... and others ... safe on its roads is important. Let's all do our part! 
For help in selling or purchasing an Austin area home, please give me a call at 512.913.1557.
Jim Gilbert, REALTOR, Heart of Austin Homes
Licensed (#0536692) to sell Real Estate in Austin and in the State of Texas
