There are tens of thousands of car accident fatalities every year in the U.S. alone, many of which could have been avoided.
Minor injuries can lead to casts and the need for heel spur support, but more serious conditions could land you weeks in the hospital or worse.
Luckily, there are some tips you can utilize while behind the wheel to prevent this from happening to you or your loved ones.
Maintain a Safe Distance
No good can come from kissing a driver’s bumper. You never know when they might break unexpectedly because of the car in front of them or a rogue deer passing by, causing you to rear-end them because you couldn’t break-in time.
By maintaining a safe distance, you’ll not only be able to break in time to prevent rear-ending the car in front of you, but you’ll activate your brake lights in time to give the cars behind a chance to react as well.
Avoid Distractions
Possibly the best thing you can do to reduce your chances of experiencing a car accident is to eliminate distractions.
It’s no surprise that many car crashes are still being caused by distracted drivers texting on their phones, but it seems people never learn.
Other accidents occur from pet owners messing with their dog or child, as well as simply staring off into space.
This can cause drivers to run red lights, roll through stop signs, rear-end other cars, miss deer on the road, run into the ditch, and cross over the middle line. This is almost always completely preventable, so don’t let it be you.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
It’s always baffling how many people think ice and snow have no effect on them. While you can only do so much during weather conditions, most accidents can be avoided by simply using your best judgment while on the road.
Is it snowy and sleeting? Drive slow and break early without stomping on the pedal. Take turns gently without cranking the wheel. Make sure your lights are on. It’s not rocket science, people.
Check Your Mirrors
The last thing you need when you’re leaving the parking lot is to smash into an oncoming car because you didn’t check your mirrors.
This is a simple solution, but many people fail to use their mirrors properly. Always check your mirrors before backing up in order to avoid cars, people, or backing into the mailbox—it’s okay, you can admit it.
It’s also good to go slow when backing up, even if you’re using your mirrors because while they are helpful, they don’t give you 360-degree vision. Use your mirrors and take it slow.
Safe Driving Means Fewer Accidents
Knowing how to drive safely isn’t enough to prevent car accidents, you have to actually implement the practices.
Check your mirrors, avoid distractions, and use your best judgment during harsh weather conditions to make getting behind the wheel as safe as you can, both for yourself as well as others around you.
