Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents are increasing proportionally to the amount of distracted drivers on the road. Unfortunately, the number grows daily, meaning that you are more likely to get into accidentes automovilisticos each day. That is why our friends at Unidos Legales have put together some tips to help you avoid getting into an accident.
Tip #1: Turn Signals
Although drivers around you may not use them, it can help you avoid an accident if you use your turn signals when driving. For those that are paying attention on the road, this will help them to know where you want to go. This is especially important when you are driving in heavy traffic or trying to get around a semi-truck on the highway, as an example. Using a turn signal should always be a habit, but sometimes it can be easy to forget.
Tip #2: Braking Distance
Never drive too close to the car in front of you. This is called tailgating. There should always be a few car lengths between you and the vehicle driving in front of you. If the car in front of you has to slam on their brakes at any point during the drive, your own car must be able to come to a complete stop without rear-ending the car in front of you. Following too close is sure to lead to an accident.
Tip #2: Don’t Drive Distracted
You cannot control the other drivers on the road around you — you can only control your own actions. To cut down on the possibility of an accident occurring, do not drive distracted. Do not try to text or do anything on your phone. Try not to eat or drink — or do anything that will take your hands off the wheel and your focus off the road. If you’re in heavy traffic, you should also turn down your music in case you need to hear sirens around you.
Tip #3: Get Sleep
Behind distracted driving, drowsy driving is another major cause of accidents. Make sure to get a good night’s rest before hitting the road. If you plan to be on a long journey, map out points where you are able to pull over and take a break. Make sure to stretch your legs and refresh yourself. If you notice yourself falling victim to road hypnosis or just drowsiness in general, pull over to the side of the road until the feeling passes.
Tip #4: Drive Defensively
Always be on high alert when in heavy traffic. Check your mirrors. Before leaving the garage or parking lot, make sure you can see out of both your side view mirrors easily as well as your rear-view mirror. Adjust them as necessary. Do not follow too closely to the car in front of you. If you see brake lights, you should slow down.
Tip #5: Don’t Rush
Car accidents often occur because someone is in a hurry to get somewhere. This also means they are often speeding to their destination. Speeding, driving recklessly, and not quite paying attention to the road are ingredients to a recipe for disaster. Slow down and take your time. Getting somewhere late is not worth your life or someone else’s life.
While we hope these tips keep you safe on the road, you still may get into an accident due to someone else’s negligence. If you get into an accident, contact a car accident lawyer near you for help immediately.