A new year feels like a fresh start and a chance to set goals that improve our lives. Maybe you’re thinking about hitting the gym more, spending extra time with family, or finally learning that new skill you’ve been putting off. But here’s one goal you might not have considered: improving your driving habits. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has offered 10 safe driving tips every driver should consider for 2025. These simple resolutions can make a big difference in preventing car accidents on Maryland roads.
What are the 10 safe driving tips for 2025?
This year, why not make a commitment to safer driving? Small changes can lead to big results. Here are ten safe driving tips to keep you and others safe on the road in 2025.
1. Buckle up: every trip, every time
Seat belts save lives. They reduce the risk of serious injury if you’re in a crash, yet too many people still skip this simple habit. Make sure the shoulder belt crosses your chest (not your neck), and keep the lap belt snug over your hips (not your stomach). Never tuck the belt behind your back or under your arm; improper use can turn a lifesaver into a liability. Before you start driving, check that everyone is buckled up. Every trip matters, no matter how short.
2. Choose the right seat for your child
Kids rely on us to keep them safe, and a proper car seat can make all the difference. Use a seat that’s right for their age, weight, and height. Install it correctly, and double-check your work. The safest place for children under 13 is always the back seat. Need help? The NHTSA offers recommendations, installation guides, and even inspection stations with certified technicians. Protecting your smallest passengers starts with the right setup.
3. Drive sober
Why is this one of the most important safe driving tips? Driving impaired (whether by alcohol, drugs, or even certain medications) is a deadly gamble. Plus, it’s illegal, dangerous, and entirely avoidable. To prevent a potential drunk driving accident, plan ahead if you’ll be drinking. Arrange a rideshare, call a sober friend, or use public transportation. If you’re hosting an event, make sure your guests have safe rides home and non-alcoholic options.
4. Stay focused on the road
Distracted driving kills. Whether it’s glancing at a text, fiddling with the radio, or grabbing a bite, anything that pulls your attention away from driving puts lives at risk. According to the NHTSA, it resulted in 3,308 traffic fatalities nationwide in 2022.
In Maryland, using a handheld cell phone while driving is illegal for all drivers. This includes talking, dialing, and using navigation apps. However, hands-free devices (e.g., Bluetooth or wired headsets) are permitted. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any cell phone, even hands-free, except in emergencies.
To prevent a potential distracted driving crash, keep your hands on the wheel and your mind on the road. It helps to set your phone to "do not disturb" mode and keep it out of reach.
5. Respect speed limits
Speeding doesn’t just get you a ticket; it increases the risk of crashes and their severity. The NHTSA reports that speed resulted in 12,151 traffic fatalities across the U.S. in 2022. Even the posted speed limit can be too fast in certain conditions like heavy rain, fog, or construction zones.
To avoid crashes caused by speed, adjust your speed to match the road and weather conditions. Arriving a little late beats not arriving at all. Also, plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination safely.
6. Avoid driving drowsy
Sleepy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, as it slows your reaction time and clouds your judgment. In 2022, drowsy driving caused 693 road deaths nationwide. Drowsy driving often occurs during dips in your body's internal clock, usually between midnight and 6 a.m. or late afternoon. These crashes often involve a single vehicle speeding off the road without braking, especially on rural highways. The best prevention is getting 7–8 hours of sleep nightly. Also, avoid alcohol and check medications for drowsiness risks before driving.
If you must drive while tired, stay alert for warning signs such as drifting or hitting rumble strips. Short-term fixes such as coffee and a 20-minute nap at a safe rest stop can help, but they’re no substitute for real sleep.
7. Share the road
When you drive on Maryland roads, you’re not alone out there. Cars, motorcycles, bikes, and pedestrians all share the same space. Stay mindful of smaller vehicles like motorcycles, which can be harder to see. Give bicyclists plenty of room and yield to them as you would a car. Always look out for pedestrians, especially in low-visibility conditions or busy areas.
8. Watch for flashing lights
Flashing lights means slowing down and paying attention. Emergency vehicles, school buses, and tow trucks all need extra room to do their jobs safely. Move over when possible; if you can’t, reduce your speed. When a school bus has red lights flashing, stop completely until it moves again. Children’s safety depends on drivers like you following the rules.
9. Be a mentor to teen drivers
Teenagers often face distractions, inexperience, and peer pressure behind the wheel. According to the NHTSA, about 2,116 drivers 15 to 20 years old died in car accidents in 2021. If you have a teen driver in your household, take an active role in guiding them. Model good habits like wearing your seat belt, staying off your phone, and obeying speed limits. Encourage them to limit passengers and avoid risky behavior. Your example shapes their future.
10. Check for recalls
Vehicle recalls address serious safety issues, but many go unnoticed. Take a few minutes twice a year to check for recalls, maybe when Daylight Saving Time changes. Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter your VIN or license plate to see if your vehicle needs repairs. The SaferCar app can also notify you of new recalls. If your car, tires, or child’s car seat has a recall, schedule a free repair immediately. Staying proactive keeps your vehicle safe to drive.
Protect your rights if you've been injured
No matter how carefully we follow safe driving tips, we can’t always predict or control the actions of other drivers. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Silver Spring, College Park, or anywhere in Maryland, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights. Goldberg Finnegan has recovered over $150 million for crash injury victims, and our case results prove it. We've helped our clients get justice and rebuild their lives after devastating car accidents.
Our Maryland car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. During your free consultation, we’ll review the details of your accident, explain your legal options, and answer your questions. You can count on us to handle the insurance companies and other aspects of your claim so you can focus on your recovery.
With offices serving Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and beyond, Goldberg Finnegan is here to fight for you every step of the way. Contact us online or call us today to schedule your free consultation.
"Goldberg Finnegan is the place to take your auto accident problems to, even the most challenging of them. They are up to task. Very professional, keeping up with their client and just fighting for clients' rights wholeheartedly. I'll recommend this auto law firm any day, all the time. Thanks for all you did for me." — AA, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐