No one ever expects to get into a car accident, but the unfortunate reality is that they do happen. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than 6 million car accidents every year in the United States. Of these accidents, around 3 million people end up injured and over 35,000 people die.
While you can’t always prevent an accident from happening, there are definitely steps you can take to stay safe on the road. In this blog post, we will discuss some driving tips that will help keep you safe while you’re behind the wheel!
Buckle-Up
One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is to always wear your seatbelt. In fact, wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce injuries and fatalities in car accidents. Seatbelts work by keeping you restrained in your seat during a crash, which prevents you from being ejected from the vehicle or thrown around the cabin. Wearing a seatbelt also helps to keep your head and spine properly aligned, which can reduce the severity of injuries in a collision.
Of course, wearing a seatbelt is only effective if it is used correctly. Make sure that you are always wearing both the lap and shoulder belt, and that the belts are snug and not loose.
Have A Lawyer By Your Side
If you, unfortunately, find yourself in a car accident, it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. An experienced car accident lawyer will be able to help you navigate the complicated legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. You can find a car accident lawyer in Pensacola, FL who specializes in car accident cases by searching online or asking for recommendations from friends or family. Also, be sure to ask the lawyer about their experience with similar cases and whether or not they think you have a strong case.
Stay Sober
Always driving sober is another crucial piece of advice for staying safe on the road. Driving while intoxicated is extremely risky and raises your likelihood of being in a serious collision. In reality, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, approximately 28% of all traffic-related fatalities in the United States are caused by drunk drivers. Get a sober friend or family member to drive you home if you’ve been drinking. You can also use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft or the public transportation system.
Drive Defensively
Another great way to stay safe on the road is to drive defensively. This means being aware of your surroundings at all times and being prepared for anything that might happen. Pay attention to the cars around you and be sure to leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. This will give you time to react if someone suddenly cuts you off or brakes unexpectedly. Additionally, always use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns so that other drivers know what you’re doing. And finally, avoid distractions while driving such as talking on the phone, eating, or fiddling with the radio.
Obey the Speed Limit
You’ve probably heard it a million times, but obeying the speed limit is one of the best ways to stay safe on the road. Speeding is a major contributing factor in many car accidents, so it’s important to always obey posted speed limits. Additionally, you should always drive at a speed that is appropriate for the conditions. For example, if it’s raining or snowing, you should slow down to allow for more time to stop.
Stay Safe on the Road This Winter
Winter weather can make driving conditions more challenging and dangerous. Snow, ice, and sleet can make it difficult to see, and can also make roads slick and slippery. In order to stay safe on the road this winter, be sure to take your time and drive slowly. Additionally, keep your headlights on, and be sure to clear all of the snow and ice off of your car before you start driving.
Get Plenty Of Sleep Before Long Drives
If you’re going on a long road trip, be sure to get plenty of rest before you hit the road. Driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. According to the National Sleep Foundation, drowsy driving is a factor in approximately 100,000 car accidents each year. If you’re feeling sleepy while driving, pull over at a rest stop and take a nap. It’s also a good idea to have someone else in the car who can take over driving duties if you start to feel tired.
Don’t Ignore The Yellow Light
You might be tempted to speed up when you see a yellow light, but it’s important to resist this urge. Yellow lights are meant to warn drivers that the red light is coming up, so speeding up is only going to increase your chances of getting into an accident. Instead, slow down and prepare to stop at the red light. Also, be sure to use your turn signal when you’re making a turn at a yellow light.
Use Your Brakes – Properly
If you need to brake suddenly, it’s important to do so properly. Slamming on your brakes can cause you to lose control of your car, so it’s important to apply pressure gradually. Additionally, if you’re driving in wet or icy conditions, be sure to pump your brakes rather than applying pressure continuously. This will help prevent your brakes from locking up. Also, be sure to have your brakes checked regularly to ensure that they’re in good working condition. This way, you’ll be sure that they’ll work properly if you ever need to use them.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe on the road. Remember, safety is always the number one priority when driving. If you have any concerns about your ability to drive safely, be sure to consult with a licensed professional. This is especially important if you plan on driving in winter weather conditions. By taking the time to prepare yourself, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable driving experience. Thanks for reading! Drive safe!