Tulsa Ranks Amongst Safest Driving Cities In U.S.

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Tulsa 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.

Tulsa came in as 107th in the largest cities in the United States in terms of car collision frequency.

"The city is the 107th safest driving city, and the average driver will be in a car collision about ever nine years," said company representative Kari Mather.

It's a drop of 15 spots since last year's report was released. Oklahoma City ranked 84th overall, a drop of 16 spots.

"We don't want drivers in Tulsa to be discouraged by their ranking. Instead, we want the report to challenge drivers in Tulsa 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 Todd Williams, an Allstate agency owner.

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

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.