Automobile accidents happen every single day in this country. Many of them result in serious injury or death. However, the truth of the matter is that many of those accidents can be avoided.
We drive every day, so we sometimes forget how dangerous driving can be. Take matters into your own hands by following these 10 safety tips to avoid an accident on the road.
1. Don’t text or talk on your cell phone
A cell phone is a distraction. When you’re looking at your cell phone, you aren’t able to give your full attention to the road. There are even laws in most states prohibit texting while driving. That doesn’t stop people from doing it anyway. Be a good example.
Don’t pay attention to your phone while driving. Any text can wait until you get to your destination. If it simply can’t wait, safely pull over before texting.
2. Don’t drink and drive
There’s nothing wrong with having a drink or two when celebrating. However, you have to be extremely careful not to get behind the wheel if you are too intoxicated. The best way to combat this is by not drinking at all if you have to drive home later. If you play the role of designated driver, hopefully someone will return the favor another time.
If you are drinking, be sure to keep it to a minimum and drink plenty of water as well. You may even want to purchase a portable breathalyzer to ensure you’re under the limit of .08.
Drinking and driving can be extremely dangerous, even sometimes resulting in death. If you get pulled over, you will be facing serious charges and the loss of your license. If you do get pulled over, be sure to call a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
3. Don’t drive while tired
You need to be fully aware to be a good driver. If you’re sleepy, it can be dangerous to drive since you won’t be able to fully concentrate on driving. Plus, you may even fall asleep behind the wheel on accident. This will almost certainly lead to an accident.
If you are too tired to drive, find a place to sleep for the night. In the worst case scenario, you should find a place to park to take a quick nap.
4. Don’t drive while extremely emotional
Arguments can make someone want to get out and go anywhere else. However, the anger or sadness we are feeling can lead to distraction and then an accident. Pull over and have a cry if you’re getting to the point where your tears are impairing your vision and judgement.
It’s not always negative emotions that can cause us to become distracted. Even extreme happiness can be distracting, so just be aware of your mental state while in the car.
5. Don’t speed
Almost everyone gets tempted to speed at times. It’s especially tempting when no one else appears to be on the road. However, the speed limits are in place for a reason. It’s best to simply follow them. If you don’t, you may not be able to slow down in the case of an unexpected car or pedestrian. Even if you have a need for speed, stick to the speed limits. If you are speeding at the time of an accident, it can lead to even more tickets.
6. Don’t neglect your tires
We all assume our tires will work properly. However, that one time they decide to fail could prove to be fatal. If your tire doesn’t work properly, it can cause you to spin out of control, hitting anything in your car’s path. That’s why it’s important to care for our tires.
Check the air pressure on your tires and keep them at the right level. Be careful not to let them get too low and do not over-inflate them. This can lead to your tire bursting. You should also change your tires at the recommended mileage.
7. Don’t neglect regular maintenance
Your tires aren’t the only part of your car that requires regular care. You need to change the oil, keep all fluids topped off, and get the undercarriage of your car cleaned regularly. Regular car maintenance will keep your car running in tip-top shape, preventing an accident due to car failure.
8. Don’t forget your seatbelt
Cars have seatbelts for a reason: to keep you safe in the case of an accident. Unfortunately, many people choose not to wear their seat belt because of comfort or a number of other reasons. Just put your seatbelt on. You should also insist that any passengers use their seat belt as well. Not only will it help you in case of an accident, but it could also prevent you from getting a ticket.
9. Don’t pick an unsafe vehicle
There are a lot of cars to choose from. Some are safer than others. When you go to buy a car, keep safety in mind. Many new cars will have information about their safety rating. Cars with low safety ratings are generally race cars and sports cars.
Used cars are particularly dangerous because you don’t necessarily know what condition the car is in. Drive it and check that all safety features are working. Be sure to check lights, the horn, and the brakes in particular.
10. Don’t forget to check the weather
Rain, snow, and high winds can create unique driving conditions that require additional precautions. If the weather looks suspicious, take time to check the weather. If it will be raining or snowing, be sure to have an emergency kit in your car. You also want to slow down significantly and leave plenty of room between you and the car ahead of you.
Driving is the best way to get around. Of course, everyone knows that. There are a lot of people on the road, and not all of them are good drivers. You have to put yourself in a position to be aware and make sure you are in a safe vehicle. If you do get into an accident, call your local car accident attorney, right away.