Driving safely and avoiding accidents requires focus, responsibility, and good decision-making behind the wheel. Despite this, there were still 46,027 car crash deaths in 2022, and between 2019 and 2022, the death rate increased by 6.4%. Here are some tips to help prevent car accidents when driving.
Stay Focused on Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, with 804,928 accidents attributed to this recorded in 2021. Avoid cell phone use, texting, eating, applying makeup, or any other activity that takes your eyes and attention off the road. Keep two hands on the wheel and your eyes forward. Limit conversations with passengers. Stay focused on driving at all times.
Obey Traffic Laws
Follow all traffic signs, signals, speed limits, and laws. Speeding gives you less reaction time and increases accident risk. Come to complete stops at stop signs and red lights. Yield when merging or turning. Stay in your lane. Don’t drive aggressively or make illegal maneuvers. Follow all rules of the road.
Check Blind Spots
Check your rearview mirror, side mirrors, and visually check blind spots before changing lanes or making turns. Be aware of the cars around you so you can anticipate problems and avoid collisions.
Keep a Safe Following Distance
Leave at least 3 seconds of following distance between you and the car in front. Increase distance during bad weather or dense traffic. Tailgating increases risk of rear-end collisions. Leave enough stopping room in case you need to brake suddenly.
Practice Defensive Driving
Be alert in anticipating what other drivers might do and preparing to react. Assume other drivers will make mistakes and drive unpredictably. Look ahead on the road to identify risks early. Be aware of your surroundings while driving. Drive defensively.
Don’t Drive When Tired or Impaired
37 people die in drunk driving accidents each day in the US. Drowsy or impaired driving dramatically increases accident risk. Make sure you’re well rested before a long drive, and stop to rest as needed. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you’re too tired or impaired to drive, call for a ride. Don’t take risks behind the wheel.
What to Do After a Car Accident
If you find yourself in an auto accident, remain calm and take these steps:
- Check for Injuries
- Assess the Situation
- Call the Police
- Exchange Information
- File an Insurance Claim
- Get Contact Information for Witnesses
- Avoid Admitting Fault
Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer
The most important step you can take is to speak with a car accident attorney who can advise you on whether you have a case, as well as liaise with insurance companies so you’re not fobbed off with a low-call settlement offer.
Careful driving and preparedness in case of an accident can help minimize the risks on the road. Following safe driving practices, filing reports properly, and contacting insurance after an accident will ensure the best possible outcome in a bad scenario. Staying focused on the task of driving is key to avoiding accidents in the first place.
