It’s no secret that car accidents can be deadly, and unfortunately, they happen more often than we’d like to think. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents kill more Americans each year than terrorist attacks.
So how do you avoid getting into a car accident? Sites like rosenfeldinjurylawyers.com outline some ways that you can go about avoiding a car accident, but here are four key tips that will help you avoid getting into one in the first place. The answer is simple: be careful! Here are a few tips to help you stay safe on the roads.
1. Avoid Driving After Drinking Alcohol
Drinking and driving is not only dangerous for you, but it’s also dangerous for other drivers on the road. Alcohol impairs your ability to drive safely and is a major contributing factor in car accidents. If you plan on drinking alcohol, make sure to stay sober while behind the wheel.
2. Don’t Drive While Under The Influence of Narcotics
Drugs and alcohol are not the only things that can impair your driving ability. Even if you don’t use drugs or drink alcohol, fatigue can make you less careful on the roads. If you’re feeling tired, take a break before getting behind the wheel.
3. Stay Vigilant When Cruising The Roadways
When cruising down the highway, be aware of your surroundings and watch for vehicles in your lane. Make sure to drive at a safe speed and stay alert for obstacles on the road. If you encounter a stationary vehicle, pull to the side and give it plenty of room.
4. Avoid Driving While On Heavy Medications
Heavy medications can make you drowsy, which can impair your ability to drive safely. If you’re taking any medications that may impair your driving skills, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about the medication. They may be able to recommend a safer dosage or alternative medication.
5. Be Mindful of Road Conditions
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean the roads are free from hazards. Ice, snow, slush, and rain can cause slippery conditions that can lead to accidents. Be particularly aware when driving in heavy traffic or during rush hour.
6. Abide By The Speed Limit
Speed limits are there for a reason – to keep you and other drivers safe. If you’re driving too fast, it’s not only dangerous for you but also for other drivers on the road.
7. Don’t Text and Drive
Texting and driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents. Any form of distracted driving increases your risk of making a mistake that could lead to an accident. If you must text while driving, use a hands-free device or pull off the road to do so.
8. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
One of the most important things you can do to avoid getting into a car accident is to be aware of your surroundings. Remain alert and watch for traffic around you. Don’t assume that other drivers will see or hear you when they should be paying attention to the road ahead. Give yourself enough time to react if something happens in front of you.
9. Stay Off Busy Roads
Avoid driving on busy streets at night or during rush hour unless necessary. These are high-traffic areas where accidents are more likely to occur. Stick to quieter streets where you can see and avoid obstacles in your path. If possible, schedule your trips during off-peak hours so there’s less congestion on the roadways.
10. Practice Caution In Busy Areas
In busy, high-traffic areas, take the time to drive cautiously. Follow the rules of the road and drive at a slower pace. Avoid making sudden moves that could cause an accident. Keep your eyes and ears open for traffic signs, markings, and other vehicles on the road.
Be careful when backing out of a parking space It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of an afternoon adventure and forget about safety when backing out of a parking spot. Make sure that before you back out, you check both sides of the space carefully for obstructions and make sure there isn’t anything blocking your way as you exit the vehicle. If something blocks your path, don’t try to squeeze past it; find another way out instead.
If You Are Involved in an Accident
If you are involved in an accident, remain calm and assess the situation carefully. If you are not injured, do not try to fight or run from the scene. Remember that law enforcement will arrive soon enough to deal with the situation. If you are injured, stay as still as possible so that medical personnel can help you without getting involved in a physical altercation.
