By Stephen L. Spector, Associate

As drivers, most of us generally believe we are doing a good job. We just have to watch out for the other guy, right? Not necessarily. New research shows that people who normally think of themselves as good drivers are the ones who are operating vehicles carelessly. Until questioned about their driving habits, many of these “good drivers” don’t realize they simply aren’t as cautious as when they first began driving.

While most people tend to think of teenagers and senior citizens as careless drivers, research now shows that adults aged 26 to 44 are actually the ones who cause the most accidents. Why? Because drivers with more experience tend to let down their guards and pick up unsafe driving habits, as well as take more risks behind the wheel. According to USA Today, more than 70% of drivers between the ages of 26 and 44 admit to speeding, while 37% say they run red or yellow lights. Almost 60% say they eat while driving, and a surprising 14% have even read while driving. One of the most common distracting habits of today’s drivers is using cell phones. “People need to be aware that driving requires your full attention. Most automobile crashes are avoidable,” says Paul Burris of Tallahassee, with the group Partners for Highway Safety.

Most drivers’ skills have not actually been tested since they got their licenses, and inevitably careless driving has increased. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 42,850 traffic deaths in 2002. In an effort to heighten driver awareness, a new driver education program has begun. Drive for Life: The National Safe Driving Test and Initiative has been set up to encourage more cautious attitudes among drivers. This program is meant to allow drivers to reassess their driving abilities and remind them of rules they may have forgotten through the years.

A voluntary test can be taken at www.safedrivingtest.com, and a television special on dangerous traffic and driving situations will air this summer, beginning a multi-year campaign. Drive for Life is underwritten by Volvo Cars of North America and sponsored by AAA, Partners for Highway Safety and Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist.

The way drivers react behind the wheel is mostly second nature, and more accidents will hopefully be prevented when drivers recognize their carelessness. “That’s the reason for the self-test on the Web to evaluate driving skills and attitudes,” Burris said.