Getting into a car accident is one of the worst things that could happen to any driver. These accidents can result in injuries and death, as well as property damage from collisions with other drivers, passengers, or objects such as trees, telephone poles, construction barriers, etc. Car owners should be aware of a few common causes of collisions and take steps to prevent them from happening. Here are some simple ways to reduce risk on the roadways:
1) Obey Traffic Laws
It may sound easy enough, but many people drive over the speed limit and fail to signal before changing lanes or making turns. In addition, it is important for drivers not to text or drink while behind the wheel – doing so decreases reaction time drastically. According to 2019 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving accidents caused over 3,000 fatalities. In the state of Missouri alone, the traffic accident fatalities rose from 881 to 987 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. With these alarming statistics, any St. Louis car accident lawyer would advise drivers to practice defensive driving and extra caution when driving along busy highways. Of course, you also need to contact one immediately if you get involved in an accident.
2) Avoid Distractions
Eating, fussing with the radio, applying makeup, etc., are all dangerous distractions while driving because they can take your eyes off of the road for too long. As mentioned earlier, the causes of deaths, property damage, and physical injuries from distracted driving are alarmingly high, and it is best not to figure out those incidents. When on the road, focus your attention on the road and be aware of what’s happening around your vehicle.
3) Avoid Aggressive Drivers
Aggressive behavior on the roads may include cutting other drivers off or tailgating; these actions result in risky maneuvers and increase the chance for an accident to occur. This is where defensive driving comes to play. You need to avoid being near aggressive drivers and don’t attempt to follow their lead. Keep your speed and distance from other vehicles manageable and within safe levels to give you enough time to react and evade in the event of sudden movement changes by other vehicles.
4) Be Aware of Weather Conditions
It is important that drivers slow down for rain or snow and give extra space between vehicles because it takes much longer to stop during these conditions. Additionally, traffic accidents are more likely to happen in wet weather because water causes roads to become slippery, which makes it harder for tires to grip the surface and puts other motorists at higher risk of losing control.
5) Check Your Car Before You Drive
Make sure that all of your lights are working, tires are properly inflated, and brakes are functioning correctly. These small fixes could save you from a costly accident.
By following these simple tips, drivers can reduce their risk of being in a car accident and keep themselves and others safe on the road. Implementing just a few of these suggestions can make a big difference in preventing avoidable accidents. Stay safe out there!
