Essential Tips to Avoid Car Accidents & What to Avoid After
Driving is an essential activity for many people, allowing them to travel freely and carry out their daily routines. Unfortunately, car accidents do happen.
Proficiency in driving, however, does not guarantee utmost safety, which is why there are traffic regulations to ensure safe and effective transportation for all road users. Despite this, 42,514 motor vehicle fatalities were recorded in 2022.
There are different causes of car accidents, and even if you try to be careful while behind the wheel, you cannot guarantee the actions of other road users. Therefore, car crashes are almost inevitable.
According to Chopin Law Firm, a firm with an experienced car accident attorney in louisiana, “car crashes can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life in negative ways. This may include injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, loss of income, and usually come with medical expenses.”
It is recommended to hire an experienced attorney to help navigate the legal complexities associated with a car accident.
Car crash vs. car accident
Car crash and car accident are two words usually used interchangeably. While they both imply the same thing ― possible damage to a car and injuries to its occupant ― they create different impressions.
Saying “car crash” creates the impression that one party should be blamed for the collision, while the use of “car accident” tends to deflect blame away from the drivers to other causes like the weather.
In reality, someone is always at fault in a road traffic collision, whether a crash or accident, irrespective of what you prefer to call it. Most accidents are caused by human errors such as speeding and drunk driving.
Other common causes of car accidents include:
- Drowsy driving
- Distracted driving
- Tailgating
- Adverse weather conditions
- Defective vehicles
- Aggressive driving
- Improper lane changes
- Running red lights or stop signs
Essential tips to avoid a car crash
Although it is almost impossible to eliminate car crashes at this time, not even in supercars with advanced safety features, they can be avoided.
Engage in defensive driving techniques
Defensive driving techniques require paying utmost attention to the road and remaining cautious of any impending danger.
It includes:
- Avoid tailgating: Maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. You can determine a safe distance with a 2 to 4 second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you.
This gives you more time to react if the car in front of you suddenly applies the brake.
- Avoid distractions: Do not text and drive or eat while driving. Every second is important while driving; hence, you should not take your eyes off the road at any time.
- Pay attention to other drivers: Do not engage in road rage. Pay attention to other drivers and road users. Watch out for turn signals, and do not forget to use yours whenever you intend to change lanes.
Regular vehicle maintenance
It is important to perform routine maintenance on your car for optimal performance and safety.
- Always check your tire: Regularly check your tires, especially before embarking on a long distance. Ensure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth.
- Inspect your lights: Your lights are important for both day and night driving. Check your headlights, taillights, and turn signals to ensure they are in good condition.
- Check your brakes: The brake is the most important feature of your car. Make sure they are working properly before driving out of your garage.
Avoid driving in adverse weather conditions
Driving in rain or snow can be dangerous. Drive at low speed when the road is wet and give more distance than usual between you and the car ahead.
Use low beams when driving in fog, as high beams can reflect off the fog and reduce visibility. Also, be extra cautious, as it is harder to see hazards during adverse weather conditions.
Mistakes to avoid if involved in a car accident
A car accident is a traumatic experience no driver wishes to be involved in. However, if you are ever involved in one, there are some mistakes to avoid, because making them can result in long-lasting consequences, both financially and legally.
Leaving the scene before police arrival
Do not leave the scene even if your car is not damaged or you are not at fault. Leaving before the arrival of the police can be seen as a sign of fault, and in some cases, you might be charged with a hit-and-run.
Not reporting the accident
Irrespective of the accident’s severity, it is crucial you report it to law enforcement. They will be able to create a record of the crash, which will be helpful if you decide to file a claim.
Not getting proper treatment
Even if you do not feel any injury, it is recommended that you visit the hospital for a proper checkup. This can help prevent complications from injuries that you may overlook.
The medical report created will also help strengthen your personal injury claim if you ever decide to file one.
Failure to gather evidence
Take photos of the scene, including the vehicle damage, road conditions, and physical injuries. Exchange contact with the other party. This should include their name, address, number plate, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
Collect the contact information of witnesses.
Admitting fault
Even if you believe you caused the accident, never admit fault, because it can be used against you later. This can make it impossible to recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and vehicle damage.
Not hiring an attorney
Your attorney can guide you on how to navigate the legal challenges that may arise after the accident. They can help you evaluate your losses, including medical bills and lost wages, to determine an amount suitable for your compensation.
They know insurance law and can adequately interpret it to help you get the compensation you deserve.