#driver safety

[argentinesunshine]

has this been done yet

[margaretthotcher]

I'm having thoughts about the race again so bear with me.

As much as I'm happy happy for Max and the alpines, this is a race that legitimately just should not have happened. We had 5 crashes that caused red flags in a single quali, with so many more yellows from near misses. We had a driver spin off in the formation lap, I don't care how bad you think Lance Stroll is, a driver doesn't just spin on a Formation Lap like that unless the conditions are dangerous. We had multiple drivers saying that the track was not safe including a heartbreaking radio where Ollie Bearman tells his engineer to talk to the FIA because he is just trying not to die at this point. And that is Before Franco Colapinto crashed causing the 6th red flag in a day. Not to mention all of the unsafe stewarding decisions made like calling red flags and safety cars too late all weekend.

I don't care if it made entertaining racing to some people, drivers have died in wet races like this and I watched the race terrified we could see another. We are so so lucky that none of the crashes were worse.

I am not shocked but am incredibly disappointed that people are focusing on the swing in the championship and Lando's media comments and not the dangerous position every single driver was put in on Sunday.

I think the GPDA can argue with the FIA over swearing all they want, because lets face it, the swearing thing is stupid, but they should also be fighting for safer conditions to drive in because races like this and like Qatar last year show that the FIA currently has little regard for when track and weather conditions threaten driver safety.

[stripedstarsblueflags]

Heatstroke (blueflags’ version)

around the qatar gp, we hear a lot of heat stroke symptom terminology thrown around like a bulleted list, spoken with a completely casual air like it’s something to no worse than jet lag. here’s a bit of translation from someone who’s actually experienced it:

headache: it’s more like pressure. you’re not even fully aware of the pain, it’s more like that ear-pop feeling you get on an airplane but all around your head. it makes sounds seem kind of muffled, too.

nausea: less so in your stomach, kind of more at the base of your chest and in the back of your throat. you feel like your throat is closing up, not in a choking way more like your gag reflex is being triggered seemingly by your own body. pressure on your throat and pain in the middle/based of your chest where your rib cage splits, that constant constriction in your throat, tingling in your jaw and mouth like you’re salivating more than you mean to even if your mouth is super dry.

dizziness: not literal, just-got-off-a-fairground, vision-swirling dizziness. it’s less about your vision and more about not feeling like you can find a vestibular rhythm. it’s as if there’s not enough blood in your feet or legs for you to feel the ground, or how far below it is for you to step. ever walked off a curb and it’s way shorter than you think so you kind of jarringly stomp on the ground instead? or the opposite, it’s deeper than you expected and you put all your weight down while your foot’s still in midair? imagine that but every step.

lightheadedness: this but in the entire upper half of your body. you feel like you’re so heavy that you’re sinking to the bottom of the ocean, or so light that you’re floating up into the atmosphere, at the same time. you’re surrounded by pressure and out of control.

lack of focus/cognitive skills decreasing: THIS. not the most unpleasant but by FAR the most dangerous to someone operating a race car. they make it sound like it’s just the kind of spacing-out you do when you’re really sleep deprived, or coming down from a bong rip. it’s a lot worse. the best way i can describe it is like everything is a dream; you’re sleeping awake.

you ever been in a dream and something about the plot requires you to remember what happened earlier in the dream itself? when you wake up, you can piece everything together, but your dreaming self can’t do that. you’re operating on whatever knowledge is in your head at that very second, and as each minute passes it’s like your own memory throws itself away. you’re not 100% sure of what you just did or said. the memory has that fuzzy, ephemeral quality of a dream upon waking, where it could have happened but it feels so much more like a guess than a fact.

and sometimes you think you’re fine but then all of the sudden you startle back into your own body and realize you can’t remember how you got where you are, or what the person in front of you said, or why you’re holding a certain thing (or how you just drove for the last three hundred meters, perhaps?). your short-term memory starts disappearing like condensation on a window. and that’s fucking scary enough when you’re not putting your own and nineteen others’ lives in your hands for ninety minutes.

you also get that one-track mind thing you do when you’re high, where one thing seems to take up far too much importance in your head for far too long. you freak out over that one memory you can’t quite place, or this one task you can’t quite get right on the first time, whether or not it matters and whether or not you’re supposed to be doing something else.

“i need some encouragement, mate.” encouragement in this case doesn’t mean “i need some feel-good motivation! i need a happy face sticker!” it’s more like i need an outside source to ground me in this reality because i can’t focus on anything outside of what’s going on in my head, and what’s going on in my head makes no sense, and i’m scared.

that’s probably the worst symptom in the context of motor racing. except probably

blacking out: i’m not a doctor so PLEASE take this with as many grains of salt as you please. but in the context of heatstroke, blacking out is similar to what might happen during a fever, in which your body is literally so hot that your brain is starting to take the damage. that’s why fevers alone can be so dangerous, sometimes even more so than whatever they’re caused by, because parts of your brain begin shutting down like an overheating laptop. everything’s struggling, so your body starts redirecting any and all blood flow it can spare to the important parts; that’s what blacking out is. it’s more important for your body to keep itself functioning than to keep itself awake. if it’s because of something like a blood sugar crisis or anemia, those conditions can have pretty quick short-term solutions. but the desert isn’t just gonna turn on the AC. the heat crisis continues even as the body attempts to protect itself. remember lance collapsing at the end of last year and the mechanic immediately rushing with the cooling fan? if that temperature doesn’t start lowering immediately, it’s a race against the clock.

also, if you black out at 200 mph… well. i don’t need to spell that out.

THIS HAS BEEN A HEATSTROKE PSA.

[i-upset-to-dead-65]

When I was 17, two other girls and I got into a car with my youth leader and her husband. We were talking and laughing. The husband turned on the car, and tore down the street in a matter of seconds before slowing down to a normal speed. He got the reaction he wanted from us. His wife told us that he was the safest driver she knew and that we were perfectly safe. We were silent the whole car ride. We didn't believe her.

Don't drive like a fucking moron just sto scare some teenagers in you backseat. That's how you fucking kill people.

[ausefulblogforputtingthingsin]

If you can't go the speed limit, whether it's because of mechanical trouble or anxiety (driving on the highway can be every if you aren't used to it), get in the farthest right lane you can, and put on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers and give them time to safely go around you. Any time you're going a lot slower than traffic is a good idea to do this.

I am BEGGING younger drivers. drive carefully. give yourself room. for fuck's sake use your turn signals and don't fucking weave thru traffic. this is not a video game, this is real life and if you get into an accident, you could get killed or kill someone else VERY easily

[artisticdivasworld]

Smarter Trucking: The Tech Transforming the Road Ahead

Trucking is evolving fast, thanks to some cutting-edge technology that’s making life on the road a whole lot smarter. Let’s talk about how companies are using AI, machine learning, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to make everything from route optimization to driver behavior analysis and capacity utilization more efficient. First up, AI and machine learning. These technologies…

[valentinateresh]

The Driver Safety Monitoring System (DMS) uses advanced AI cameras and sensors to track driver behavior, including eye movement and head position, to detect signs of fatigue or distraction. It provides real-time alerts to enhance road safety and prevent accidents, making it an essential tool for fleet management and personal vehicles. 

[techdriveplay]

The Psychology of Road Rage: Understanding Driving Behavior

In the fast-paced world we live in, the road becomes a stage for a wide array of human emotions, among which anger often takes the spotlight. The psychology of road rage is a complex phenomenon that intertwines with our daily lives, sometimes with dire consequences. This article delves into the intricacies of road rage, shedding light on its psychological underpinnings, societal impacts, and…

[dominostodoomsday]

Most driver's ed teachers and literature will tell you that if someone is tailgating you, the best thing to do IS slow down. Going at a slower pace will make them slow down to, so in the event that you need to stop, they will have more time to react than if the both of you are going at a faster pace. If they wanna be Speed Racer, they can most likely just switch lanes and pass you, so neither of you have to deal with each other.

But when you slow down, do so by breaking. It activates your break lights so that the car behind you knows you're slowing down. If you only take your foot off the gas, they may not realise that you're slowing down at all, and had a greater chance of rear-ending you.

favorite hobby when I'm driving is to catch someone trying to climb up my back bumper while I'm going a completely reasonable speed and just slowly take my foot off the gas. you seem upset, brother. why don't we slow down and enjoy the view awhile

[orbitusfleetsolutions]

Fuel Tax Credits 101: Maximize Your Fuel Tax Credits with Ease (Australia)

Feeling the pinch at the pump? You're not alone. Whether you're a business owner running a fleet or a driver hitting the road for work or leisure, Australia's rising fuel prices can drain your wallet. But fear not! There's a powerful tool in your arsenal called fuel tax credits, and unlocking them can turn every fuel stop into a mini victory for your finances.

So, what are fuel tax credits and how can you claim them? Buckle up, we're taking a quick ride through the basics:

Fuel Tax Credit Fundamentals:

The Good News: Both businesses and individuals in Australia can claim fuel tax credits for fuel used on-road.

The Key Factors: The amount you can claim depends on the fuel type, vehicle type, and the distance you travel.

The Catch: Keeping accurate records is crucial for claiming the right amount. That's where Orbitus's fuel tax credit calculator comes in handy.

Orbitus: Your Credit Calculation Copilot:

Say goodbye to spreadsheets! Our user-friendly calculator does the heavy lifting, providing an estimate of your refundable credit amount in a breeze.

Accuracy is key: Enter your details like fuel type, vehicle, and distance, and the calculator handles the rest, eliminating the risk of underclaims or overclaims.

Beyond the Calculator:

Maximizing your fuel savings goes beyond just claiming credits. Here are some smart strategies to consider:

Fleet Management for Efficiency: For businesses, GPS-powered fleet management systems like Orbitus's offer valuable tools to optimize routes, reduce idle time, and promote fuel-efficient driving habits.

Tire Pressure Matters: Properly inflated tires can significantly improve fuel efficiency. Invest in tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) for real-time tire pressure insights and avoid fuel-guzzling underinflation.

Driver Safety Pays Off: Safe driving habits directly impact fuel consumption. Encourage eco-friendly driving practices among your team and see the savings pile up.

Fueling a Brighter Future:

Claiming your fuel tax credits isn't just about saving money; it's about making responsible choices. By using fuel efficiently, we all contribute to reducing emissions and promoting a sustainable future. With Orbitus's suite of fuel-saving solutions, you can navigate the road to a greener tomorrow, one efficient kilometer at a time.

Ready to pump up your savings and drive towards a brighter future? 

Visit the Orbitus website www.orbitus.com.au today and explore our fleet management systems, fuel tax credit calculator, and TPMS solutions. Remember, every drop counts!

[bouncinghedgehog]

[kahuna-burger]

This is your irregularly scheduled reminder to turn your headlights on in the rain.

Don't tell me that they come on automatically if they're needed, the sensor does not understand rain.

Yes, I know they don't change how well you can see, they change how well other drivers see you. By a lot.

If your wipers are on, your lights should be on. It's really that simple.

[formulanni]

The Safety Car as The Tower:

The Tower is commonly interpreted as meaning danger, crisis, destruction, and liberation. It is associated with sudden unforseen change.

@st-leclerc @rubywingsracing @saviour-of-lord @three-days-time @the-wall-is-my-goal @albonoooo @ch3rubd0lls

[vyncs-gps-tracker]

Has Driving Become More Dangerous than Ever

The NHTSA recently reported that highway fatalities are probably going down. It is a collection of various publications based on the findings of the NHTSA in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the previous seven quarters.

This statistical drop bodes well, of course. Then again, the consensus is that the roads are becoming more dangerous than before, even after more and more people started using tracking devices for vehicles. Is this true? Is it because of the pandemic causing an outlier in the data? Find the answers to these questions below.

The Effect of the Pandemic

In the first quarter of the pandemic, traffic fatalities went down as the number of vehicles on the road decreased. However, things changed in the following quarters because drivers felt they had more freedom due to less traffic. Eventually, fatalities began spiking. Therefore, even after a drop in the number of traffic fatalities in 2022, the value was more than what it was in 2019.

Police Pulling Over Drivers

NPR indicates that the police are not pulling over rash drivers as much as they used to earlier. When combined with a police shortage, it becomes clear that the dangers of the road have increased. Some officers claim they don’t have enough time to participate in traffic enforcement. Police stations also have enough data to back these claims. The police force issued 86% fewer traffic tickets in 2022 than in 2019.

The Rise in Road Rage

Based on a survey conducted during the pandemic, 70% of drivers in the USA have experienced some form of road rage over the past year. Here is a breakdown of the data.

Honking horns aggressively - 50%

Shouting and making hand gestures angrily - 50%

Tailgating - 18%

Leaving the car to confront someone - 17%

Situations like these result in more drivers arming themselves. About 20% of men have said they have a loaded gun in the car. About 9% of women did the same. Road rage shootings have increased. Five years ago, 70 people died in road rage shootings, but in 2022, the number doubled to 141.

New Vehicles are Safer

When it is about road safety, one common positive aspect drivers can goad about is that a new vehicle is safer. It is true! The silver lining is that a new automobile is safer than the one that came out two decades ago, and it is due to the following technological advancements.

Seatbelts

Airbags

Backup camera

Electronic stability control

Driver assistance

Blind spot detection

According to the NHTSA, these safety technologies have saved over 600,000 lives between 1960 and 2012. More technology keeps popping up all the time, making vehicles safer than before. You should look for advanced safety features whenever you consider purchasing a new vehicle, as they will ensure you survive an accident.

[i-upset-to-dead-65]

When I was 17, two other girls and I got into a car with my youth leader and her husband. We were talking and laughing. The husband turned on the car, and tore down the street in a matter of seconds before slowing down to a normal speed. He got the reaction he wanted from us. His wife told us that he was the safest driver she knew and that we were perfectly safe. We were silent the whole car ride. We didn't believe her.

Don't drive like a fucking moron just sto scare some teenagers in you backseat. That's how you fucking kill people.

[isqueedmyself]

Marshall Ramsey, the cartoonist for Mississippi Today, releases a free coloring sheet on FuzzBeak most days. This one, I think we need to go viral.