Car Accidents Have Always Been A Common Problem: How To Be Safe
Did you know that about six million accidents are reported in the United States every year? Unfortunately, over 90 people die from accidents every day. Three million are injured in car accidents every year. Even though it is impossible to prevent accidents completely, there are a few ways to remain safe. Here are a few helpful tips to avoid car accidents.
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Tips To Stay Away From Car Accident
1. Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents may not be common, but they happen. They occur when a vehicle collides with debris, animals, or road barriers. Here are a few effective tips to prevent them:
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Consider The Weather
Always drive right for the current weather conditions. Unfortunately, many drivers slack off upon realizing that they are the only ones on the road. Maintain safe speeds, especially when it is icy, rainy, or snowy. Things may change when you least expect it.
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Observe The Speed Limits
Avoid driving too fast even when you can’t see other vehicles on the road. Speeding is one of the leading causes of single-car accidents, and it may result in fatalities.
2. Backing Collisions
Accidents can occur as you beck out of your driveway or a parking spot. However, these accidents are preventable and your best option is to avoid backing up. If possible, park strategically to prevent the need to back up into traffic.
Another wise tip is to install a backup camera in your vehicle. If you don’t have a backup camera, here are a few helpful tips:
- Avoid distracting activities when backing out
- Assess the traffic patterns and your surroundings before you get out of the car
- Back out slowly and continue checking the traffic
- Always reverse in a straight line
- Use the shortest route possible to back out
3. Intersection Crashes
Accidents that happen at intersections are preventable. They are caused by distracted drivers, the people who miss traffic signals or fail to notice vehicles stopping before taking turns. Proper defensive driving skills will help you avoid intersection accidents. When the lights turn green, wait a while before going. Check and ensure that no one is coming through. Watch out for speeding drivers and avoid taking risks.
4. Preventing Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are some of the most common types of collisions in Santa Fe. Preventing rear-end collisions saves you the cost of property damage and eliminates the need to see your Santa Fe car accident attorney and here are a few helpful tips:
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Keep A Safe Distance
Do not drive too close to the car in front of you, no matter how safe the situation may seem. Always maintain some distance to ensure that you can stop if you need to. It is essential when it is icy or frozen outside. Always remain at least three seconds behind. Extend the distance if the vehicle in front of you is large or the weather conditions are unfavorable.
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Avoid Driving Under The Influence
Do not drive under the influence or when you are feeling drowsy, driving while sober and alert reduces your chances of making driving mistakes.
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Be Strategic
Always drive strategically and avoid getting into situations that may force you to apply brake suddenly. Be very careful if another driver appears to be following you closely.
5. Windshield Damage
Cracks and chips on your car are common, but you don’t have to put up with them. You can prevent them with a few basic precautions. In most cases, windshield damage occurs when stones and rocks fall on your vehicle. Other vehicles may throw them up in the air.
The best way to prevent windscreen damage is by maintaining a safe distance from trucks and other cars. Avoid driving behind snowplows as they can drop granular substances and salt. Some of them may be big enough to cause cracks and chips.
6. Parked Car Damage
Parked car damage may seem like the least of your worries, but it happens more often than you may imagine. Whether you plan on leaving your car on the road or in the parking lot, you must participate in some effort to prevent parked car collisions. These suggestions may be helpful:
- If possible, consider parking in a garage. That way, your car will be safer
- Avoid parking in busy parts of a parking lot to minimize the risk of accidents
- Always park in the middle of a parking spot. If your car appears to be too close to a parking line, reposition it before leaving
- Avoid parking near busy intersections, driveways, and tight turns
In summary car accidents may be common, but they are avoidable. With some effort and attention to detail, you can prevent most of them.