No one plans to be involved in a car accident, and everyone tries to avoid them as best as they can. However, are you really doing enough to prevent the chances of being in or causing a potentially fatal vehicle collision? Peruse the following four ways to avoid car accidents to make sure you’re doing everything you can to stay safe:
Buy the safest vehicle possible and keep it properly maintained: Every year, vehicle manufacturers come out with new safety technology that dramatically improves the accident avoidance capabilities of vehicles on the road. Drivers may, therefore, want to consider investing in a newer vehicle to benefit from the latest technology. Drivers should also keep their vehicles maintained regularly so that they stop and maneuver as efficiently as possible.
Only drive when you’re rested and sober: It’s essential that you feel rested and in good health every time you get behind the wheel. If you’re tired — or if your health is ailing — it will slow down your reaction times and limit your ability to stay agile and attentive behind the wheel, which could result in a crash. Also, it should go without saying, that you should never get behind the wheel while impaired by illegal drugs, alcohol or medication.
Put your cellphone away: Smartphones and cellphones are the primary cause of distracted driving these days. Put your phone out of reach to avoid the temptation of using it while driving.
Be a defensive driver and follow the law: Driving defensively, giving other drivers space and following all of the rules of the road will prevent the majority of vehicle collisions. It’s too bad that all drivers aren’t this dedicated to safety.
If an unlawful or negligent driver hurt you or a family member, the facts of the accident and resulting injuries could support a viable claim for personal injury damages in New York civil court.