The immediate and after effects of an auto accident can be devastating and far-reaching. Unfortunately, many people do not understand the profound consequences of such events until they are in one themselves. You will not only suffer the inconvenience of not getting to your destination, but may also be required to pay higher premiums for your auto insurance.
In extreme cases, car accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities. However, the good news is that most car accidents can be avoided.
Here are some tips on how to avoid a car accident:
Tip #1: Ensure your vehicle is in safe driving condition
If you want to avoid car accidents, you should ensure that you keep up on scheduled car maintenance. The tires as well as the brake system should always be replaced regularly as they wear down. It is also important to make sure that all the fluids are maintained.
Before embarking on long journeys, get your mechanic to inspect your car and fix any problems.
Tip #2: Ensure you are in safe driving condition
In addition to the vehicle, it is important to make sure that the driver is road ready. If you drive, have eye exams on a regular basis and get plenty of rest. A healthy driver is more likely to make sound decisions within a brief period, a factor that will help in avoiding traffic accidents.
Before driving a vehicle, you should get enough sleep and ensure that you are not taking medication that could cause problems such as drowsiness.
Tip #3: Avoid distractions while driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. Therefore, it is important to keep your eyes on the road whenever you are behind the wheel. Avoid brushing your hair, shaving, using your cell phone and changing CDs while driving.
If you need to do anything that would distract you, it is better to pull over.
Tip #4: Never drink and drive
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol will impair your judgment and undermine your ability to drive responsibly. These substances may also compromise your vision, especially when driving at night.
Drunk driving will not only increase the risk of an auto accident, but also land you in trouble with the law. With the high number of people who are needlessly injured and killed because of drinking and driving, it isn’t worth the risk – find alternative transportation.
Tip #5: Observe speed limits and signs
Driving faster than the speed limit reduces your reaction time and puts you and other drivers, pedestrians and passengers at risk. Speeding will also increase the braking distance, making it harder to avoid an accident.
Besides speed, there are other rules of the road you must observe. These include slowing down as you approach a red light or a stop sign and obeying all traffic signs.
Tip #6: Prepare for poor weather conditions
As confident as you may feel driving, it is important to understand that wet and slippery conditions present a unique set of challenges. Driving in fog as well as other weather conditions that limit visibility come with its own challenges too.
Drive more cautiously in poor weather conditions or consider waiting until the conditions improve.
Tip #7: Limit nighttime driving
Whenever possible, you should avoid driving at night. At night, visibility is greatly reduced – even for drivers with good eyesight. It is also true that the chances of encountering drunk drivers are higher when driving at night. To avoid a traffic accident, remain alert when driving at night.
As a driver, one of your primary responsibilities is to ensure that you do not put yourself, your passengers and other people at risk. By following these tips and being sensible while driving, you can do your part to help make the streets a safer place as you journey to your destination.
