Car accidents are a common occurrence in the United States, and they happen for many reasons. It’s hard to make them not happen. It isn’t like you can avoid driving altogether and walk or bike everywhere. But there are things we can do to minimize the risk of having an accident when we get behind the wheel.
1. Don’t Drink and Drive
This one is a no-brainer, but it’s still worth mentioning. Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the world, and it’s completely avoidable. Either just don’t drink before getting behind the wheel, or if you have been drinking, have a designated driver who won’t drink at all to drive you home. It is also important to realize that just because you have had a few drinks doesn’t mean it is safe to get behind the wheel of a car. Even a small amount of alcohol decreases your ability to concentrate on the road and can lead to accidents. Either way, don’t drink and drive! According to a Jackson, MS car accident lawyer, many people get seriously injured in these sorts of accidents. It is important that you don’t settle for less than you are owed in any sort of accident.
2. Drive the Speed Limit
Just like the previous tip, you’ve definitely heard this one before, and it’s still an important safety tip. Driving over the speed limit is another leading cause of car accidents, so it’s very important to drive at the speed limit or below. Driving the speed limit gives you more time to react to anything that might happen on the road, and also makes you more visible to other drivers. Not only will this help you avoid getting a ticket, but it will also help keep you safe on the road. Remember, the faster you drive, the more dangerous it is! It’s also against the law to exceed the speed limit in most states.
3. Drive Defensively
One of the best ways to avoid accidents is to drive defensively. This means being aware of your surroundings at all times and taking precautions to avoid potential hazards. For example, always use your turn signals when switching lanes and make sure you are far enough away from the car in front of you at stop signs.
4. Make Sure Your Car is Ready for the Road
Car maintenance is key, especially when it comes to safety on the road. You can’t be a defensive driver if your brakes don’t work properly or your tires are bald and lack traction in inclement weather (which is most of the time). Make sure your car is always running properly and be ready to pull over if you notice a problem.
5. Buckle Up
This one is another no-brainer, but it’s still important. Always buckle up when you are in a car, no matter how short the trip is. Seat belts save lives and can prevent serious injuries in the event of a car accident. If you are in an accident, not wearing a seat belt could even get you cited by law enforcement. So don’t forget to buckle up!
6. Stay Off Your Phone
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents, and it’s entirely avoidable. Taking a phone call, or texting and driving, can take your focus off the road and lead to accidents. The best way to avoid this is to just stay off your phone when you are driving. If you need to make a phone call, pull over to a safe spot on the side of the road first. Make sure that you have Bluetooth that picks up your calls and broadcasts them over the speakers in your car. This way, you don’t need to look at your phone to answer it. Just stay off your phone when you are driving. It’s not worth the risk. There are plenty of other things you can do with your time. Just drive your car!
Driving can be dangerous, but you don’t need to leave it up to chance. With these expert tips for preventing common car accidents, you’ll feel more confident on the road and ready for anything that might come your way. Whether you want peace of mind when driving or are worried about getting a ticket, consider following some of these defensive driving techniques. You should also make sure your car is always in tip-top shape before hitting the road because an accident could happen at any time–even if you’re just running errands around town! Stay off your phone while behind the wheel, too; it’s not worth risking someone else’s life over something so small.
