Useful Tips for Avoiding a Car Accident
It’s no secret that car accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the United States. In fact, in the past years, there were millions of car accidents reported each year. And while you may feel like you’re doing everything you can to avoid being in an accident, there are still some things you may not be aware of that could put you at risk.
We’ll outline some useful tips for avoiding a car accident. If you implement these eight tips daily, you can stay well out of trouble.
Drive Defensively
This may sound like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many accidents are caused by aggressive driving. If you Tailgate, make sudden lane changes or weave in and out of traffic, you’re more likely to get into an accident. Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you, use your turn signals, and be aware of what other drivers are doing around you.
And if you do end up in a situation where the other driver is at fault, make sure to have a car accident lawyer you can contact. An attorney can help you with insurance claims and settlements. Additionally, they will be able to investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your case.
Follow the Speed Limit
According to research, speeding is one of the leading causes of car accidents. When you’re driving above the speed limit, you have less time to react to hazards, and you’re more likely to lose control of your vehicle. Not to mention, if you do get into an accident while speeding, the damage is likely to be much worse than if you were driving the speed limit.
So, regardless of how tempting it may be to go above the posted limit, remember that it’s not worth risking your life. In some states, there’s also a “basic speed law” which means that even if the posted limit is higher than what is safe for the conditions, you can still be cited for speeding.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
This one should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous and puts not only your life at risk but also the lives of everyone else on the road.
If you’re going to drink, make sure to have a designated driver or take public transportation. And if you must drive, be sure to get a good night’s sleep beforehand so you’re well-rested. Both alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time, so it’s best to avoid driving if you’re under the influence.
Put Down Your Phone
We live in a world where we’re constantly connected, but that doesn’t mean you should be on your phone while driving. Even if you’re just sending a quick text, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to an accident. If you must use your phone while driving, make sure to pull over to a safe location first. And if you’re expecting an important call, let your passengers know so they can answer it for you.
Be Aware of Road Conditions
Stay up-to-date on weather conditions and plan your route accordingly. If there’s been a recent storm, be aware of possible flooding, debris, and downed power lines. And if the roads are icy, drive slowly, and be sure to give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded. This should include items like a first-aid kit, food, water, blankets, and flares.
Remember, if you’re focused on something other than the road, you’re more likely to miss a hazard or fail to see an upcoming stop sign. So, make sure to pay attention to your surroundings and stay focused on the task at hand – driving. And if you must do something that takes your attention away from the road, pull over to a safe location first.
Don’t Drive When Tired
Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you’re feeling tired, it’s best to pull over and take a nap or wait until you’re well-rested before continuing your journey. Driving when tired can impair your judgment and reaction time, so it’s best to avoid it if possible. Make sure to have plenty of rest before embarking on a long road trip, and take breaks often so you can stay refreshed.
Use Your Turn Signals
It may seem like a small thing, but using your turn signals is crucial to avoid accidents. Turn signals let other drivers know what you’re planning to do, so they can adjust their speed and be prepared for your turn. Additionally, failing to use your turn signals is against the law in most states. So, not only is it dangerous, but it could also lead to getting pulled over and fined.
Don’t Follow Too Closely
Tailgating – or following too closely – is one of the leading causes of car accidents. When you tailgate, you don’t give yourself enough time to react if the car in front of you suddenly stops. So, it’s important to leave enough space between you and the car in front of you. Depending on the speed limit and the conditions, you should leave at least two seconds of space between you and the car in front of you.
And if the roads are icy or wet, you should leave even more space. Additionally, passing another car is one of the most dangerous things you can do on the road. It’s important to only pass when it’s safe to do so – don’t pass on a blind curve or hill, and make sure there’s no oncoming traffic before attempting to pass.
By following these tips, you can avoid having a car accident. Remember to drive safely and always be aware of your surroundings. If you must use your phone or eat while driving, pull over to a safe location first. And if you’re feeling tired, it’s best to wait until you’re well-rested before continuing your journey. By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Brian Zeng
Founder of Ponbee.com: I like to write about self-improvement and achieving excellence, and believe that it is these qualities that ultimately make people successful in life.
