No matter how safe of a driver you think you are, it never hurts to brush up on driver safety tips.
To reduce the number of injuries between your passengers’ and the safety of other people on the road, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of driving safety tips every driver should know.
Always Follow Traffic Laws
Following all applicable traffic laws and regulations is an important way to reduce your chances of being in an accident.
Always come to a complete stop at a stop sign, avoid speeding up to run a yellow light, etc.
Do Not Drive Under the Influence
Even if you only had one drink, driving while intoxicated can still result in an accident. Your reaction times are slower, which means you may not be able to react to unexpected hazards in time.
If you are over the legal BAC limit or you are on drugs, you could also be facing severe criminal penalties if you are pulled over or cause an accident.
Do Not Drive While Distracted
Distracted driving accounts for a significant number of accidents across the country. Many people assume distracted driving refers to texting and driving, but that’s not all. Distracted driving is anything that takes your attention off the road. It could be changing a radio station, looking at the GPS, eating, or talking with passengers in the vehicle.
Wear a Seat Belt
You should always wear a seat belt when you’re in a vehicle. It’s one of the most critical safety features you can use to protect yourself from an accident. Also, you could be fined for not wearing one.
Adjust Your Driving Habits for the Weather
Just because the speed limit is 55 miles per hour, it doesn’t mean the same speed limit will apply if it’s pouring rain or snowing.
Always use common sense and drive at a practical and safe speed for the current weather conditions.
Use Your Traffic Signals
Always remember to use your traffic signals when you are changing lanes or making a turn. Don’t assume that other drivers will know what you intend to do.
While you can’t prevent all errors made by other drivers, you can help reduce such errors by giving other drivers a reasonable expectation of what you intend to do.
Always Maintain Your Vehicle
Safe driving is more than just what happens when you are behind the wheel of a vehicle. You always need to make sure that your car is maintained correctly and that it’s safe to operate.
Keep your fluids at the recommended levels and check your brakes, tires, and lights.
Always Drive Defensively
Being aware of what other drivers are doing at all times can help you avoid an accident.
If you have the mindset that another driver will likely do something crazy, you are more prepared to react and avoid them.
Try to always keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, especially during inclement weather and/or significant traffic.
Contact an Attorney If You’re Injured
No list of safe driving tips can guarantee that you will avoid every possible accident, but following these tips can reduce your risk.
If you are injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence or reckless behavior, you could be entitled to reimbursement for your damages. Contact a lawyer near you to learn more about how an attorney can help you recover the financial compensation.
