Car accidents are common and can happen to anyone, regardless of age or driving experience. Car accidents are also one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in America. These ten simple ways can help you drive safer and avoid getting involved in a collision.
1. Always buckle up
In the United States, seat belts save more than 14,000 lives each year. Being in an accident with your seat belt on is better than not having one. Even if there is a low chance of an accident, it’s always better to be prepared.
2. Slow down and pay attention
Distracted driving has been one of the most common causes of car accidents in recent years. It leaves people more vulnerable to harm and can lead to an accident. Pay attention to what’s happening around you, stay in your car, and watch for other cars.
3. Don’t text and drive
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that you are more likely to be involved in a car accident while texting behind the wheel than when driving sober, even if you don’t have any alcohol or drugs in your system. Don’t do it if you’re tempted to use your phone while driving.
4. Don’t speed
Speeding is a primary cause of car accidents and is strongly associated with accidents at high speeds. Speeding can increase the severity of an accident and make it more likely you’ll be in a severe, serious, and fatal car accident. If you’re tempted to drive faster, pull over and think it over until you’ve cooled off.
5. Don’t drink and drive
Drinking and driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in America, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Driving after drinking can make you more confused and likely to be involved in a collision.
6. Observe road signs and signals
Road signs and signals play a big role in preventing accidents. You should always be aware of road signs and traffic lights when you’re driving. If there’s a sign prohibiting the crossing, slow down and yield to pedestrians, bicycles, or other vehicles that may need to cross the road.
7. Limit your passengers
If you’re driving, you should only have people in the car sitting in the passenger’s seat or children on a child safety seat. A child safety seat keeps children safe.
8. Train for all weather conditions
To be prepared for driving in all types of weather conditions, you should take a driver’s training course from an accredited driving training program. Driver’s training can help you handle the road better, keep you focused and teach you how to respond to emergencies behind the wheel.
9. Keep your car maintained
If your vehicle is starting to act up or make strange noises, it may need a simple repair or tune-up. Prompt maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns in the middle of a busy day, and it can help keep you on the road longer.
10. Don’t drive angry
If you’re in a bad mood or feeling stressed out, it’s best to wait until you’ve calmed down before driving. It’s hard to be safe when you’re angry, and it’s especially dangerous when you’re driving an automobile.
When accidents do happen, it can make a big difference to have a lawyer on your side. A car accident attorney in Gainesville, FL, can help you get the compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured. Follow the above tips, and you can help limit the risk of accidents and reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.
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