Did you know that auto accidents are the leading cause of non-natural deaths in the United States?
Getting your first car can be exciting. However, the freedom you feel also comes with some serious responsibility. No one wants to have to make an accident injury claim due to their own reckless driving, or at all, so make sure to be clear on the ways to stay safe!
To stay safe, make sure to keep reading as we discuss five tips for preventing car accidents.
1. Practice Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is the practice of driving as carefully as possible. That means obeying traffic laws, driving in the correct lane, and using turn signals whenever appropriate.
At the same time, some drivers seem to have a limitless amount of road rage. So how do you handle the unneeded aggression?
Let them pass and stay out of their way. Don’t engage in rude hand gestures or hostile behavior. Be careful that their bad attitudes and recklessness doesn’t get you into trouble.
Learning defensive driving skills might not seem like your biggest priority, but following the basics could save your life.
2. Ditch the Distractions
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), distracted driving is at the root of at least 9% of fatal crashes in the U.S.
The biggest offender? Using a mobile device while driving.
Whether it’s answering a text or taking a phone call, leave your phone alone while you drive. It could save your life.
Of course, there are other distractions, too, like daydreaming or looking at something off in the distance.
For your safety and the safety of your fellow drivers, keep your eyes (and mind) on the road.
3. Keep Adequate Distance
The faster you’re driving, the longer it’ll take to come to a complete stop. Therefore, you should always maintain the proper distance between yourself and the vehicles ahead of you.
A good rule of thumb is to allow one car length per 10 miles per hour. So if you’re going 60, you’d want to keep six car lengths of distance.
4. Know Your Vehicle’s Blindspots
One of the first things you’re taught when learning to drive is to adjust your rearview and side mirrors. And that’s great advice!
However, you should be aware that even if you have a great view of traffic in all directions, you can’t see everything. Blindspots are areas of your vehicle with an obstructed view, which can be particularly dangerous on the highway.
Whenever you merge or make a turn, be sure you’re accounting for any blindspots your car may have.
5. Slow Down
The sign on the interstate says 55, but you’re pretty sure you can get away with going 70. And maybe you’re right. But that doesn’t mean it’s worth the risk.
Take this multi vehicle crash as a prime example. Early reports suggest that the driver who tragically lost his life was speeding and failed to take proper precautions when changing lanes, causing him to crash into a Lexus and barrel into the median.
So please, follow the speed limit. It might take another minute or two to get to your destination, but at least you’ll arrive.
Stay Safe and Follow These Tips on Preventing Car Accidents
As we wrap things up, let’s take a look at what we’ve learned.
Defensive, mindful driving is your best bet. Keep your eyes on the road and don’t let your mind wander. And if you come across an aggressive driver — let them pass and have their accident elsewhere.
Preventing car accidents is on you, so make sure to follow these tips. And if you’re interested in reading up on more car content, check back with our blog!
