Car accidents can be devastating and tragic, and even minor accidents can be costly to you, your vehicle, passengers, and anyone else involved. Most people don't think about the effects of a car accident until one happens to them. Whenever you get behind the wheel, it's important that you focus on the task at hand – driving.
Not all car accidents can be avoided, but fortunately, many of them can. It doesn't take a lot of work to avoid a car accident. In fact, many times, it just comes down to being responsible and proactive when you're on the road.
Here are 10 tips to help you avoid getting into a car accident:
- Avoid distractions: Some of the worst habits of drivers on the road today are texting or talking on a cell phone while driving. Put your phone down whenever you're in the car, and if you have to use your phone, pull over to the side of the road. Additionally, always pay attention to the road ahead of you. Distractions are almost always present but do your best to avoid them.
- Drive the speed limit: As tempting as it may be to drive over the speed limit, do your best not to speed. The truth is that driving any amount over the speed limit reduces your reaction times and increases the likelihood of you getting into an accident.
- Don't drive aggressively: Most people have been in a situation where road rage has taken over, and although it's easy to get angry at other drivers, it also increases your chances of getting into an accident. When you're on the road, try not to take the actions of another driver personally, and do your best not to react by cutting them off, frequently honking, not allowing them to merge, using explicit hand gestures, etc.
- Keep your car properly maintained: Do your best to stick to your car manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. It's important to make sure that your brakes and tires are always in the best possible condition and ready for the road. Also, be sure to get regular oil changes, replace windshield wipers, and remember to keep your engine maintained.
- Know your car's limit: Not all cars are the same, and a brand new sports car is not going to drive the same as a run down minivan. Always pay attention to how your vehicle reacts in certain situations. Does your car lean a lot when rounding corners? How long does it take your car to stop when you apply maximum pressure? How much grip do your tires have? All of these things will give you a better idea of how your car handles and how you can avoid car accidents.
- Maintain good posture: It's tempting to slouch and drive with your hands resting at the bottom of the steering wheel. However, sitting up straight and driving with your hands in the 9 and 3 o'clock position will help give you maximum control over your vehicle.
- Be aware of blind spots: Every car has at least one blind spot, which are areas on each side of your car where you cannot see. Adjust your side and rearview mirrors to provide a near-seamless panoramic view of the road behind you, but don't rely solely on them while driving. Always turn back and look directly into the lanes to see if there are any cars in your blind spot before switching lanes.
- Limit your night driving: Some people like to travel at night to avoid traffic, but nighttime driving also brings a unique set of hazards. Not only are you more fatigued when you drive at night, but you also have a decreased field of vision. Also, you may be more tempted to speed at night since there are less drivers on the road – increasing your chances of getting into an accident.
- Always wear your seat belt: If you aren't doing so already, get into the habit of always wearing your seatbelt when you're in a car – regardless of whether you're the driver or passenger.
- Never drive under the influence: It's no secret that driving under the influence can have deadly consequences, yet every day people get behind the wheel after drinking. When you get behind the wheel after a night of drinking, you're not only putting your own life at risk, but you're also risking the lives of everyone else on the road. If you know that you're going to be drinking when you go out, always find another way home, such as calling a taxi or using a designated driver.
Car accidents can be devastating, but oftentimes, they're also preventable. You can only control how you act when you're behind the wheel – not what other drivers do. However, it's important that you take responsibility when you drive and focus on the road ahead.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motor vehicle accident due to the negligence of someone else - don't delay. Contact the Dellutri Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation! Call us at (800) 391-4337 or you can request a Free Consultation online. Our team of dedicated attorneys and staff are here to help!
