According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were an estimated 5,419,000 crashes that occurred in 2010, killing over 30,000 individuals and injuring over 2 million. These numbers have only increased over the years and, incidentally, most of these tragic incidents are the result of human error and unsafe driving practices. To help minimize the number of crashes that occur on roadways across the country, it is crucial for everyone to drive safely and defensively.
Below Are Some Tips for Safe Driving That Can Help You Avoid a Collision While out on the Road:
- Never drive while drunk: It seems obvious, but the fact is that drunk driving is still among one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. The problem is that many people tend not to realize how drunk they are or believe that being buzzed behind the wheel is not all that dangerous. Whether you are buzzed or drunk, it is crucial not to get behind the wheel. If you are going out to a place where alcoholic beverages will be served, use a taxi or ridesharing service. If you unexpectedly end up drinking while out, leave your car behind and call for a ride or ask a sober friend to take you home. Whatever you do, do not drink and drive.
- Never speed: Speeding is a common cause of vehicle collisions, so no matter how skilled a driver you think you are, remember to abide by the speed limitations. Not only will this help you and others stay safe, but it will help you avoid a costly traffic ticket.
- Always buckle up: Drivers and passengers should always wear a seatbelt. Despite all the wonderful new safety features that exist in new cars today, there are still no substitutes for the protection seat belts are able to provide. Even collisions that occur at low speeds can result in serious injuries when a person neglects to wear a seatbelt.
- Be extra cautious when driving in poor weather: Inclement weather conditions such as fog, snow, heavy rain, and strong wind can all lead to serious motor vehicle accidents. Any time you drive during bad weather, make sure you exercise more caution and drive slowly, maintain a greater distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you, and be careful when driving through curves.
- Practice defensive driving: Aggressive drivers are more likely to get involved in an accident than those who maintain safe distances and avoid speeding. Moreover, defensive drivers are also able to remain calm even in heavy traffic and yield to other aggressive drivers to avoid dangerous situations.
- Properly maintain your vehicle: Vehicle maintenance does more than prolong the life of your car, but it is also instrumental in preventing accidents that might occur due to mechanical issues. Make sure your tire has the right pressure since uneven tire pressure can lead to blowouts. Take your car in for regular check-ups by a certified mechanic, especially if you have been using it for a significant number of years.
- Avoid distractions: Nearly everyone has a cell phone these days and often take calls, answer texts, or even surf the web while driving. This is incredibly dangerous and becoming an increasingly common cause of motor vehicle accidents. It is not the only form of distracted driving, however, so remember to avoid engaging in anything that will take your attention away from the road, even eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio station.
- Never drive while fatigued: Before you set foot in your car, make sure you have had enough sleep. Closing your eyes for even a matter of seconds can lead to a disastrous accident. You should also avoid taking any medications before you drive that might make you feel drowsy. They could impair your vision and your ability to drive.
- Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you at all times: This has been mentioned a few times and that is because it is a critical part of safe driving. Oftentimes, accidents that involve rear-ending occur due to a lack of appropriate space being maintained between vehicles. If the vehicle ahead of you has to respond to an obstacle on the road or some other emergency and suddenly stops, you will end up rear-ending it if you have not maintained proper distance.
Trusted Car Accident Attorney in Massachusetts
If you were recently injured in a motor vehicle accident that was caused by the reckless actions of another party, now is the time to retain skilled legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you need to get you through this difficult time. At Flanagan & Associates, our Quincy team of personal injury attorneys are here to provide the quality legal service you deserve.
Call our office today at (781) 332-4344 to schedule your free case evaluation.