Nobody can stop a car accident. However, there are several strategies you can adopt and prevent a car crash. Remember, there are several road users. Things like discipline and alertness can make a huge difference. Thus, don’t get injured. Minimize car accidents with the following defensive driving skills.
Stay Alert
Stay focused. Keep scanning the horizon for potential hazards. Early detection can help you maneuver away from danger. As a driver, you should be able to spot hazards within twenty seconds of your current position.
Observe Reckless Drivers
Be watchful of other drivers. And this is particularly true for those who’re speeding or driving recklessly. If you come across such motorists, carefully drive away from them and change lanes.
Don’t Change the Lane Without Checking Blind Spots
Make it a point to check your blind spots. This isn’t all about checking the mirrors. You might as well need to turn your head to track your blind spots if the side mirrors don’t reflect.
Turn Signal Well
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Be careful about how you change lanes. When changing lanes, be sure to utilize your turn signal. Failing to notify other motorists about what you intend to do could increase the risk of a car crash. So, make sure that you notify them early so that they can react in a timely manner.
Don’t Assume
Not all drivers will make safe maneuvers. Of course, some will do so, but others won’t. That’s why it’s always advisable to focus on yourself. You should only trust yourself when driving. Don’t assume that other motorists will make safe maneuvers and cushion you for potential hazards.
Consider Maintaining a Safe Distance
Keep distance from other vehicles. Avoid driving too close to other vehicles. Otherwise, you might not be able to stop if the other driver suddenly comes to a halt. Essentially, you should maintain a separation distance of at least two seconds.
No Distracted Driving
Be alert. Always keep your eyes focused on the road. Even the slightest distraction could dramatically increase your risk of causing an accident. Thus, be sure to avoid making phone calls, texting, eating, or looking at passengers while driving.
No Drowsy Driving
Drowsiness can prevent you from driving safely. It can make it extremely difficult for you to avoid hazardous situations. Plus, lack of sleep can make you fall asleep while driving hence putting you at a heightened risk of causing an auto accident.
According to research, getting less than seven hours of quality sleep can dramatically increase a person’s risk of causing a car accident. If you’re feeling sleepy, then it’s better to get off the road and relax a bit. Don’t risk your life and that of others. Simply pull over to a safe place and get some rest before getting back on the wheel.
No Drink Driving
Drunk driving is extremely dangerous. It’s completely prohibited by the law. Alcohol or drugs impair your ability to make good judgments. They make it difficult for you to accurately assess traffic situations. Combined with delayed reaction times, this could lead to a severe road accident.
So, if you plan to drink, make sure that you find a sober driver to take you home. Don’t make the mistake of driving under influence.
Slow Down
It’s better to arrive late but be safe. Speeding can make it difficult for you to control your vehicle. Besides, it gives you the flexibility to maneuver away from danger. Research has found that speeding is one of the leading causes of car accidents.
There’s a good reason why speed limits were assigned to all vehicles. The posted speeds are appropriate for different weather and road conditions. Nonetheless, you might need to reduce your speed during rainy times.
Don’t Panic
As a driver, you should always be calm. Road rage can make you over-speed or engage in other forms of reckless driving. No matter the challenges you face, always try to control your emotions. If other motorists cut you off, simply let it go. Don’t pick a quarrel or a fight with them.
No Over Speeding
Over speeding can be dangerous. In case something happens, you have limited time to react. You don’t have full control over your vehicle. That’s why you should always stick to speed limits. In most cases, there are road signs that indicate the allowed speed limit. Observe these limits and stay away from traffic collisions.
Observe Traffic Signs
Traffic signs are designed to restore sanity on the roads. Disregarding traffic signs can lead to accidents. For instance, animal crossing areas come with signs. Over speeding at these points can lead to an accident. Hitting animals is a real possibility.
Talk To Your Attorney
Not all accidents are preventable. Despite being a cautious driver, you might still get involved in a road accident. And injuries resulting from such accidents are often costly to treat. However, if you choose to file a personal injury claim, you might receive adequate compensation for your damages.
Working with an experienced Traffic Collision Lawyer in Stamford, CT can help you obtain a reasonable settlement. He or she can help you get compensation for lost wages, pain, suffering, and medical bills. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations and charge contingency fees. Thus, you won’t need to make any payments upfront. You’ll only pay them if they manage to recover compensation on your behalf.
Key Takeaways
Getting involved in an accident can be traumatizing. That’s why you should do everything to stay away from car accidents. Remember, personal injuries can make your life difficult. For instance, lost wages can reduce the quality of your life. As a responsible driver, it’s important to devise strategies to minimize these accidents. Don’t drink and drive. Stay alert. Avoid bad weather. Stick to your lane. Don’t over-speed.
The Bottom-Line
Did you know that a car crash can change the course of your life? Yes, it’s true. For instance, things like injuries can have a permanent impact on your life. Lost court cases can have your driving license suspended. Causing death can lead to a jail term. However, you can minimize these accidents. Use the above defensive driving strategies and arrive safely.
