Nearly every auto accident happens because of driver error.  And most often, lack of attention by a driver is the cause.  The NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION has determined that 80% of all accidents could be avoided if the driver had ONE MORE second to react.  ONE MORE SECOND!!
    A lot can happen in one second.  At 70 MPH, you travel over 100 feet.  At 20 MPH, you can come to a complete stop.  But a second can seem like an eternity.  For most people, when paying complete attention, it takes nearly one second to react and take action.  For example, it takes about one second to take-in data and move your foot from the throttle pedal to the brake.  At 70 MPH, it takes 3 seconds and over 160 feet to stop. At this speed you need 4 seconds to react and stop to avoid a situation in front of you.  In order to buy 4 seconds, you must be looking at least 400 feet ahead.  And that assumes that you are paying attention to the road AND looking far enough ahead to react and stop.  The best way for you to avoid an accident is to pay attention and look as far ahead as possible.  And if visibility is reduced, reduce your speed.  Buying that extra second costs very little.  And it could save your life.
This is Don Alexander for The Mountain Driver on KBHR 93.3 FM.