Have you ever been in a car accident? If you are like most Americans, you probably have. The more than 6 million American automotive crashes each year are bound to affect you at some point in your life. In fact, the average American driver is expected to file a claim about every 17.9 years. Here are three simple steps you need to take to be car/truck accident free:
- The number one thing that can prevent car crashes is increased reaction time. Most people are unable to teach themselves to react faster, but what if you had more time to react. That’s exactly what slowing down can do for you. Driving the speed limit rather than 10 MPH over the speed limit will give you an extra 15 feet of protection for every second you move. That’s the difference between slamming into the car in front of you and being able to stop on time. Plus, it might save you some money. Americans shell out more than $5.6 billion every year on the 40 million issued speeding tickets.
- Now that you’ve slowed down, make sure you are anticipating any potential collisions. Keep your distance from aggressive drivers and make sure to constantly scan the road, one of the most important things taught in driving school. To scan the road, check both side mirrors and the rearview mirror every 5-10 seconds, as well as looking both directions when entering intersections.
- Make driving your priority. Many of us use the time we are driving to get other stuff done like a phone call or a quick bite to eat in between destinations. Though it is tempting to take advantage of this time given, the average American spends more than 12 days each year behind the wheel of a car, it is important to focus on driving. And that figure is even larger for truck drivers! Here are some tips: Choose an already assembled playlist to listen to and put your phone away. Wear your seatbelt and don’t engage in distracted driving. This means no eating, no doing your makeup, no talking on the phone, and no fiddling with the radio. Distracted driving is the number one cause of car and truck accidents.
That’s it! Those are the three main tips you need to keep safe on the road. Of course there are other ways to decrease your vehicle accident risk such as avoiding the fast lane and driving with your hands at 9 and 3. Of course, even if you are driving with best practices accidents do sometimes happen. If you find yourself in an auto accident it is always best to get professional help. First, make sure you work up the scene of the accident properly, and then contact a Colorado car accident lawyer. Here at Franklin D. Azar & Associates your consultation is always free. Call us today and we will fight for you to get you every dollar you deserve.
