Reducing traffic accidents Published Nov. 2, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Alexandra M. Boutte 509th Public Affairs WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Traffic death rates are three times greater at night than during the day, according to the National Safety Council. While there is no certain way of knowing what causes drivers to get distracted, safety remains the individual's responsibility. Motor vehicle travel is the primary means of transportation in the United States, yet for all its advantages, deaths and injuries resulting from crashes are the leading cause of death for people ages two-to-34; with more than 33,000 in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "It is necessary to be familiar with your surroundings to avoid any unfamiliar driving scenarios," said Tech. Sgt. Ryan Dillingham, 509th BW Safety ground safety technician. The 2011 Air Force goal is zero preventable mishaps and fatalities. Therefore, the Air Force is re-emphasizing the importance of fastening seatbelts, driving at posted speed limits and avoiding situations of driving while distracted, under the influence, fatigued or otherwise impaired. The two most common reasons of accidents on the installation are improper backing-up and inattentive driving, according to documents provided by the 509th Security Forces Squadron reports and analysis section. The 509th Bomb Wing Safety Office believes assessing the situation, consider options to limit risk and take the appropriate action (ACT) will decrease the number of vehicle accidents. The following are the top 10 risk factors while driving, courtesy of the Air Force Traffic Safety Center: 10. Driver distracted by non-driver tasks 9. Driving the vehicle beyond the operator's skill level or vehicle limits 8. Inappropriate response to road hazards 7. Being part of an at risk age group (E-1 to E-4 are much higher than any other group) 6. Refusing to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle 5. Failure to comply with traffic laws other than speed limits 4. Driving when fatigued 3. Using alcohol and other drugs when driving 2. Not wearing a seatbelt 1. Excessive speed for conditions "You can avoid almost all of the top risk factors by exercising self-discipline and utilizing the ACT process," Dillingham said. "You are able to control how you drive; however, the driving behaviors of other motorists on the road are a different story." The wing safety office teaches multiple classes to military members such as standard traffic safety course, intermediate and advanced traffic safety and motorcycle training. Use your most important tool--your brain and keep your full attention to the task at hand. For more information and dates on available traffic courses, email the 509th BW Safety Office at 509BW.SEG2@whiteman.af.mil.