5 Effective Tips to Prevent Car Accidents
Purchasing a new vehicle comes with the responsibility of keeping yourself and your loved ones safe while on the road. Unfortunately, accidents can occur, but there is no guaranteed way to prevent them. So, is there a way for us to avoid these unwanted incidents?
Yes, there is. By following safety measures and having a car accident lawyer on standby, you can reduce the risk of accidents and have added protection in case of any incidents.
“Millions of cars, taxis, Ubers and Lyfts travel the streets of Manhattan every day, helping people get to and from their final destinations. This volume of traffic and congestion results in an average of over 1,000 car accidents each month in Manhattan,” says a representative of The Barnes Firm, home to NYC’s best car accident lawyer. But they’re ready to help you claim compensation if you get involved in a car accident. So, keep a car accident lawyer in hand, but also follow the steps below to avoid car accidents.
Learn Driving Well
Before you take to the road, master the art of driving – and do it well. While many individuals enroll in driving lessons, they often fall victim to road accidents due to a lack of confidence in their driving abilities. Hence, you need to have a positive attitude toward driving before you set out on your first journey.
For those who choose to learn to drive on their own, try to practice under the watchful eye of an experienced driver. This will enable you to rectify any mistakes you may make during the learning process.
As a new driver, try to limit the number of passengers in the vehicle to minimize the chances of an accident. Too many passengers can serve as a distraction and increase the level of responsibility while driving, both of which can contribute to road accidents. To minimize the risk, unless necessary, drive more during the day and less at night.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Even if you’re not a new driver, never underestimate the dangers of drinking and driving. This is one of the primary causes of automobile accidents, leading to serious injury and loss of life. To avoid being a statistic, always have a designated driver if you plan to drink alcohol in the evening. This person should remain sober and be responsible for driving you and your companions back home safely.
In other situations, avoid drinking altogether until you have reached your destination or are back in the comfort of your own home. The impaired judgment and reaction time that comes with alcohol consumption can make you a hazard on the road, putting yourself and others at risk.
In many countries, there are strict laws against drunk driving, and if caught, you could face severe penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even jail time. So, be safe and make a plan for safe transportation before consuming alcohol.
Always Wear Seatbelts
Wearing a seat belt while driving is one of the most critical safety measures you can take. Seat belts may not be stylish, but they can save your life during a car accident. According to researchers, wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of fatal injury by 45% in a passenger car and by 60% in a pickup truck.
So, make wearing a seatbelt a habit, both for you and the passengers in your car. Whether you’re on a short drive or a long road trip, take the time to buckle up. By doing so, you increase your chances of surviving a fatal accident and reduce the risk of serious injury.
Check the Weather
Both new and experienced drivers face the risk of car accidents during severe weather conditions. Drivers may encounter dense fog, heavy rain, or snow in different parts of the world. So it is essential to know how to drive safely in these conditions.
The roads can become slippery in wet weather conditions, such as rain or snow. To avoid skids, keep your windshield wipers in good working order, check your tires and brakes, and be aware of black ice.
Similarly, fog can severely limit visibility on the road, making it challenging to see what lies ahead. This is particularly dangerous at night, so keep your headlights on and maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. By taking these precautions, you can stay safe on the road and reduce the risk of car accidents during adverse weather conditions.
Don’t Use Cell Phone When Driving
The increasing use of cell phones by the younger generation has become a significant contributor to car accidents. Using your cell phone while driving, whether it be for calls or texts, is a major source of distraction that increases the likelihood of an accident. Even if you use headphones and try to steer the car with both hands, being on the phone can still divert your attention, making you a risk on the road. Avoid using your cell phone while driving to prevent any hazards.
To ensure the safety of yourself and others, it’s best to put down your phone and focus solely on driving. If you tend to get distracted by notifications, turn off your internet connection before you start driving. If you need internet access, mute your notifications until you arrive at your destination.
As a new driver, the fear of being involved in a car accident is a common concern. Although there’s no foolproof way to prevent accidents, following safety tips can significantly reduce the risk.
Remain calm and take the appropriate steps to ensure your safety if you’re involved in an accident. Remember to contact a car accident lawyer if necessary to protect your rights and interests. Taking these precautions can help you navigate through a difficult situation and come out unscathed.
