Practice prevention to avoid accidents this summer

By CRDAMC Public Affairs Office

The key to staying healthy is prevention, not only in medicine but in accident avoidance, too, according to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Safety Office officials.

“Taking even the simplest preventive health care measures can help ensure you stay well and happy,” said Dana Henry, from CRDAMC’s Safety and Occupational Health office. “Taking preventive measures while driving ensures you stay safe and well, too.”

Summer is a heavy travel time, with a lot more cars and motorcycles on the road. While no one can predict an accident, Henry said travelers can prevent and avoid accidents if they stay vigilant in following vehicle safety rules. Some hints to keep in mind while traveling include:

–        Ensure your car or motorcycle is in good operating condition and brakes, brake lights and turn signals are all working properly. Tires should have correct air pressure and adequate tread for good traction on the road. Also, clean windows and mirrors to have a clear view of other traffic.

–        Stay attentive. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards and be alert for any bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, potholes and animals that may be on the road as well.

–        Avoid distractions such as texting, making phone calls or checking emails. Eating, smoking, applying makeup or reaching for objects inside the car may seem simple and easy to do, but taking your eyes or attention off of the road for just a few moments could be the difference between life and death. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that at least 25 percent of all vehicle accidents result from distracted driving.

–        Everyone in the vehicle should wear a seatbelt at all times. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers and front seat passengers who buckle up are 45 percent more likely to survive motor vehicle crashes and 50 percent more likely to avoid serious injuries.

–        Do not drive impaired. Alcohol is not the only thing that can impair your driving or riding abilities; prescription and illegal drugs can potentially have the same effects. You will be legally charged with a DWI (Driving While Impaired) if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 percent or more in all fifty states.

-        Do not drive if you are tired. Fatigue can cloud your ability to make sound judgments. Get the appropriate amount of rest before driving.  If necessary, use a designated driver.

Motorcycle safety continues to be a major concern at Fort Hood, as accidents have increased in the past year, Henry stated.

“Every unit, brigade or command has designated motorcycle mentors who are very instrumental in helping motorcycle riders stay safe. They organize group rides to help junior riders improve their general riding safety and accident prevention skills, plus promote the importance of proper personal protective equipment,” she said. “The non-commissioned officers in the CRDAMC motorcycle mentorship program also reach out to non-riders to make them aware of their role in preventing motorcycle accidents.”

In addition to safe driving guidance, Henry added that there are many vehicle safety courses and training available to further promote accident prevention and foster an environment of safe driving/riding on and off duty. Some courses offered are:

Intermediate Drivers Course

Required for all newly assigned military personnel under 26 years of age. Register through at - https://apps.imcom.army.mil/airs

Remedial Driver Training Course

For high risk drivers and/or drivers convicted of an on-post moving violation or at fault in a traffic mishap. Note: for any off post citations, drivers must take remedial driver’s training off post. 

Accident Avoidance Course

This is required for all military or civilians who drive Army motor vehicles and/or GSA vehicles, and it must be repeated every four years. Web-based training is available on the Army Learning Management System (ALMS) website – https://www.lms.army.mil.

Motorcycle Safety Training

Mandatory progressive training includes Basic Rider Course for new riders, Experienced Rider Course for all riders, Military Sports Bike Riders for sport bike riders and Refresher Training for redeployed riders.

For more information visit the III Corps and Fort Hood safety website at www.hood.army.mil/safety or the CRDAMC safety website at www.crdamc.amedd.army.mil/newSite/prev-med/summer.aspx.

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Motorcycle safety

Sgt. Rickey Jones, part of CRDAMC’s motorcycle mentorship program, discusses motorcycle safety with Staff Sgt. Kimberly Pearson at his informational display in front of the MEDCEN at CRDAMC’s recent Medical Skills Fair. Jones reached out to non-riders, too, to make them aware of their role in preventing motorcycle accidents. (U.S. Army photo by Patricia Deal, CRDAMC Public Affairs)