Avoiding car accidents is important for both your safety and the safety of others on the road. They’re the leading cause of death in the United States. There are many things you can do to help prevent car accidents, but here are three of the most important:
1. Know how to use your phone while driving properly
Your mobile device should be a tool that helps you get where you need to go, NOT an obstacle. You shouldn’t text or drive, so put it away! If you must have it with you, only use apps that don’t require you to touch anything else, like GPS maps. When using these types of apps, make sure you have your eyes on the road 100% of the time. Don’t look at directions, play games, read emails or texts, etc. Keep looking straight ahead to stay safe.
2. Wear seatbelts
The safest way to travel is in your vehicle; however, when you’re out on the open road, there’s still plenty you can do to keep yourself, your passengers, and others around you safe and to minimize damage if an accident were to happen. One thing I’m always reminded of is to wear your seatbelt every single time you board a vehicle. Seat belts not only protect your body but also reduce injuries in the event of a crash. It doesn’t take much force for the back of a seat to break free from its restraint. The better protected you are against forces acting on your body during a collision, you will sustain less injury. So make sure to buckle up no matter what kind of transportation you’re riding in walking, biking, bus, train, plane, boat, etc., ensure you remain seated as the law requires.
3. Watch out for drunk drivers
People who drink too much become unpredictable and usually more aggressive than usual while under the influence of alcohol. They lose their normal judgment and act without thinking about the consequences of their actions. This makes them far more likely to be involved in a car accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk drivers are responsible for nearly one-third (28%) of all traffic fatalities. These statistics prove that impaired driving is something we need to address head-on to make our roads safer.
4. Use common sense
While some of this may seem obvious, people react differently based on many different factors such as mood, stress, hunger, tiredness, and emotions. Be aware of everyone around you when you’re behind the wheel of any vehicle, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, van, or truck. Take note of everything going on in front of you, including other vehicles, pedestrians, animals, trees, buildings, and signs. Watch around blind corners and over-speed bumps, keeping an eye on other cars, bicycles, motorbikes, buses, trucks, and even horses. Don’t forget to scan for hazards like potholes and debris on roadsides or uneven surfaces that could affect your vehicle’s stability. Be careful not to fall asleep while driving because it decreases reaction time which is crucial when traveling long distances or doing dangerous maneuvers like merging into heavy traffic. Pay attention; obey the rules. And remember, safety comes first and second before anything else.
5. Check tire pressure regularly
Poorly inflated tires will lead to unstable handling and an increased risk of accidents. But checking the tire pressure regularly is definitely the most important step towards getting the most mileage out of your vehicle. It’s true that “don’t look down” is good advice but check your tire pressures often enough. A simple trip to the gas station or auto parts store to fill up or change your tires isn’t such a hassle. You don’t have to change your entire set, though; simply visit your local tire depot and get those tires properly maintained so your ride stays smooth for longer.
In conclusion, these are 5 tips to help you drive safely. In case of an accident, be aware that a Car Accident injury attorney offers compensation to victims of crashes caused by the negligence or recklessness of another driver. If you, a family member, or a friend has been injured due to someone else’s behavior, try to find a lawyer specializing in personal injury cases.