We call them car accidents because they’re just that: accidents. Millions of people are on the roads each day, and many of them don’t drive responsibly. With so many risk factors out there when you hit the road, car accidents can feel unavoidable. While some are completely out of your control, there are ways to prevent yourself from causing them.
Keep both hands on the wheel.
This lesson is taught in all driving schools: have both hands on the wheel at all times. The positioning of your hands may vary, as many of us are taught different spots around the wheel. But whether it’s the 10 and 2 o’clock position, 9 and 3 o’clock position, or 8 and 4 o’clock position, the principle is the same. Keep both hands on either side of the wheel at all times while driving. Having your hands placed properly gives you the most effective control over the vehicle.
Pay attention!
Distracted driving is the top cause of accidents in the United States. You can be distracted by numerous things while operating a vehicle: other passengers, your phone going off, adjusting the radio, or even knocking something onto the floor of the car.
There are also distractions outside the car. Maybe someone else is driving recklessly, you see a car you adore, or the field beside you is filled with adorable cows. Listen, we get it. But even just a moment can change everything when it comes to driving. One second of distraction can cause a huge accident, something you don’t want to deal with. If you want to avoid causing an accident, simply keep your eyes on the road ahead of you.
Be aware of blind spots.
When you are pulling out of a parking space or changing lanes, make sure to check your blind spot. It’s called that for a reason! It’s not always enough to check your mirrors. Take a glance over your shoulders to make sure you’re not at risk of hitting a car in your blind spot.
Maintain a safe distance.
You never know if the driver in front of you is going to stop short. For this reason you need to have a cushion of space between the back of their car and the front of yours, because a fender bender of that sort is easily avoidable. You have way more time to react if you have an appropriate distance between the two of you, allowing you to prevent accidents.
Slow down.
Speeding is another common cause of accidents. So if you want to avoid getting in an accident, slow it down! You never know what slower-moving car may pop out in front of you, or if you’ll accidentally lose control. With this in mind, stay out of the fast lane if you’re especially concerned about accidents. (That’s the lane in which you’re most likely to get into an accident.)
As we said before, sometimes accidents are unavoidable. But when it comes to these recommendations, you’re much less likely to be the cause of one. If you do end up getting in an accident because of someone else’s poor decisions, let us know! We can help put together your case so you get the representation and compensation you deserve.