How to Avoid Common Causes of Car Accidents
Road-related accidents are among the most common causes of injuries and fatalities across the globe. So much so, that several law firms specialize in them, from those dedicated to defending drivers at fault to those helping families get the justice they deserve. It’s normal to see commercials for experienced truck accident attorneys these days. But just because accidents happen doesn’t mean you can’t prevent them.
There are ways to avoid getting into car accidents. One of them is to familiarize yourself with what causes them. Most road-related accidents follow patterns that you can study. These range from bad weather conditions to reckless driving to the stray animal crossing the road. Once you’ve figured out how most accidents occur, you can actively keep yourself safe on the road.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents across the country. It occurs whenever the driver does something other than concentrating on the road ahead. Recently, constant smartphone use is the cause of distracted driving. Simply glancing at your notifications puts you at risk of getting in a car accident, from a minor rear-end collision to a major side-impact collision.
Preventive Measures
- Avoid eating and drinking while driving.
- Remind your passengers not to distract you while driving.
- If you have to send a text or call someone, pull off onto the shoulder lane.
- If you want to put on music or change the radio station, do so when you’re stopped at a traffic light.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence is a major problem throughout the country. It can happen to anyone, from a teenager coming home from a party to truck drivers pulling all-nighters. Drunk or drugged driving is a dangerous scenario that puts several people at risk of getting injured or killed.
Preventive Measures
- Don’t underestimate the effects of substances.
- If you drank alcohol or took drugs, opt to hail a cab or call someone to pick you up.
- If you’re going out with a group of people, choose one person who will be the designated driver.
- If you think someone is drunk or drugged, keep them from getting in the driver’s seat.
Hydroplaning
Roads often become slippery after heavy rains. The puddles you drive through will put you at risk of hydroplaning. This is a loss of traction caused by water separating your tires from the ground. When this happens, you lose control of your vehicle’s steering and it puts you at risk of colliding with other cars, surrounding infrastructure, or even pedestrians.
Preventive Measures
- Regularly inspect your tire treads. If they are worn down, replace them immediately.
- Drive slower after or during bad weather conditions.
- Try to avoid going through large puddles.
- If you do hydroplane, take your feet off the accelerator and brakes. Instead, try to steer the vehicle to an empty and open space where you can slow down to a stop.
Anyone who drives is at risk of getting into a road-related accident. But preparation is key to preventing them from happening. Gain a better understanding of how these accidents occur, so you know what to watch out for when you’re on the road.