No one ever plans for an accident, hence the reason they are called accidents. Yet there are ways to make travel among other cars safer, such as utilizing defensive driving and avoiding distractions and fatigued driving.
Utilize Defensive Driving Techniques
Defensive driving is being able to identify hazards and using strategies that could prevent an accident. An example is avoiding another car’s blind spot. One way to know if it’s an issue is when you can’t see the other driver’s side mirror. If you can’t see the driver, he or she won’t be able to see you.
When changing lanes, make sure there’s enough space to do it safely. And don’t suddenly slow down in front of the vehicle once your car has moved in the same lane. Cutting in front of someone else is dangerous and could cause a chain reaction crash if you cause the car behind you to brake suddenly.
Always use turn signals when changing lanes or making a turn. Cars traveling around you won’t know your intentions, so another driver may not be prepared if you decide to suddenly make a right turn.
Keep plenty of distance between your car and the one in front. This is especially important when the weather conditions are poor or there is heavy traffic.
And finally, be aware of areas that tend to be more dangerous, such as intersections. Make sure you yield the right of way when appropriate, and beware of dangerous left turns. Only make the turn when you know it is safe to do so.
Avoid Distractions
Take care of all business before driving. Deciding to look for something, put on music, or apply makeup while already behind the wheel is dangerous to you, your passengers, and other drivers. It’s important to keep both eyes on the road and observant of what other vehicles are doing. It’s just as critical to keep both hands on the wheel in order to maintain control.
This means avoiding distractions such as a cell phone to talk or text, changing a CD, eating, smoking and anything else that would deter your attention from the road. If it becomes necessary to make a call or perform any other task besides driving, pull over to a safe spot.
Don’t Drive When Drowsy
The effects of sleepiness can be significant for drivers. It can slow reaction time, making it difficult to stop or avoid an obstacle in the road. Drowsiness can cause the vehicle to drift into another car’s lane. Or you might almost miss an exit ramp, taking it last minute and potentially causing an accident.
Be careful about taking certain medications if planning to drive. Some can cause drowsiness, so look for warnings concerning this.
In the unfortunate event that you are injured in a car accident in Morrisville for which another driver is at fault, talk to an attorney at Cordisco & Saile LLC. Call us at 215-642-2335 or contact us via our online contact form to set up a consultation.
