When it comes to driving, it goes without saying that safety should be the top priority. However, that is not always the case, given the many accidents that are reported on a daily basis. Last year alone, there were over 30,000 fatal car accidents in the U.S.
If you put some precautions into place, car accidents can be avoided.
In this read, we are going to look at a few tips that can potentially prevent a car accident from occurring or even save your life.
Avoid Distractions
Regardless of where you are driving, or the time, it is important that you avoid distractions while on the while. Avoid texting or calling while on the wheel. If your children are screaming or fighting, consider pulling over and handle the situation. Anything that takes your mind of the road should be avoided. One of the most common causes of auto accidents is distracted driving and you don't want to become the next victim.
Know Your Car
Being familiar with how your car operates is crucial. How well can it stop at a moment's notice? Are the wheels in good condition? Are they good enough to drive in undesirable weather conditions? Knowing the performance of your vehicle will help you avoid driving in conditions that could result in an accident.
Beware of Blind Spots
Always ensure that your side mirrors are in a position where you can see all areas surrounding the car. Also, avoid relying on the mirrors alone; turn around to ascertain that the car isn't in your blind spot. Keep in mind that trucks have huge blind spots and so, you should never assume they see you.
Scan The Area
It is imperative to stay keen on cars in front of you. However, it's equally important to occasionally scan the whole area in which you are driving. Just because a driver is in the next lane doesn't mean they will stay there. When near an intersection, look both ways to ascertain that someone is not running the red light. It's easy to be confident with your driving skills, especially if you have done it for a long time, but you never know who's driving next to you. Ensure you're aware of your surroundings at all times.
Do Routine Maintenance
As mentioned earlier, it is vital to be familiar with your vehicle and this point is no different. Have a routine car maintenance schedule and keep track of the dates including; when you last changed fluids, got new brakes, new tires, etc. Your vehicle will perform better when you keep it in an optimal condition and will be safer to handle.
Be Extra Cautious When Driving at Night
Things can be crazy when driving during the day, but they become even more unpredictable at night. You are more likely to come across people under the influence at night, and your vision may not be as good in the dark. Being extra cautious while on the road is even more important at night.
Do Not Drive When Drowsy
Driving when fatigue is very risky. Too many individuals drive when they haven't had adequate sleep and this implies that they're not as alert as they ought to be. If you are feeling tired and drowsy, do not get behind the wheel.
Be Careful When Changing Lanes
Cutting in front of others, not using turn signals and changing lanes in an abrupt manner are surefire ways to get involved in an auto accident. Being careless at this can ideally frustrate others, making them be reckless as well. Follow the rules and be careful when changing lanes.
Avoid The Fast Lane
It may seem convenient, but when you need to avoid an out of control vehicle or get off the interstate quickly, the fast lane tends to be quite risky. If you use the right or center lanes, it is easier to get to your exist than getting trapped in the fast lane. The fast lane ideally attracts motorists who go at high speeds and increase the chances of causing an accident.
With these tips, you should be able to drive in a safer manner, however if the worst should happen and you require legal advice contact attorney, Michael R. Herron and read more about what to do if you are experiencing chest pain following an accident.
