OKC Has Safe Drivers, But Drops In Nationwide Ranking

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Oklahoma City ranked as having some of the best drivers in the nation according to Allstate Insurance Company's Best Drivers Report. The report names the 200 safest driving cities in the nation.

Oklahoma came in as 84th in the largest cities in the United States in terms of car collision frequency. It's a drop of 16 spots since last year's report was issued.

"We don't want drivers in Oklahoma City to be discouraged by their ranking. Instead, we want the report to challenge drivers in Oklahoma City to make positive changes to their driving habits that will in turn make the city a safer place to live, work and raise families," said Michelle Riley, an Allstate exclusive agency owner.

According to the report, the average driver in Oklahoma City experiences an auto collision every nine and a half years.

The safest city in the nation is Fort Collins, Colorado, which held onto the top spot for the second year. Tulsa came in at 107.

Auto crashes in general have declined over the last few years, but crash fatalities still average more than 32,000 every year despite technological advances, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Allstate offers the following tips for avoiding crashes:

• 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.
• Don't tailgate – 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 your car brakes, exhaust system, tires, lights, battery, and hoses are in good working order.