Most car accidents in the US, be it major or minor, are often caused by human error like not following traffic laws or undermaintaining one’s car. Minor accidents cost you your time, money, and convenience, but major accidents may cost you your life. The National Safety Council estimated that 40,000 people died in vehicular related accidents last 2017. This figure was considered lower compared to numbers in 2016 yet higher than those of 2015. Although automakers did their part in trying to lower this number through ensuring safety of drivers and passengers through installing safety features in cars, and policy makers continue to make new traffic laws and ensure the enforcement of existing ones, drivers must also play an equal part in protecting themselves and others when they are on the road. Here are what you should do to prevent car accidents and the frustrations and problems that comes with it.
Practice Smart Defensive Driving
Most car accidents are caused by distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding. Being responsible with yourself and others riding your car starts with driving safely and following traffic rules. Always remember to drive only when you feel alert, and never get your hands on the wheel if you feel sleepy or groggy, otherwise you might be putting yourself and others in danger. Keeping your hands in the right position will prevent you from accidentally swerving the wrong way. Always stop, look, and listen when you are in your car, be alert with what other drivers are doing while in traffic.
Check Your Car
Sometimes car malfunctions can also cause accidents when on the road, lack in brake fluid, a worn-out brake pedal, overheating engine, and old rotors are hazards and dangerous when driven on the road. Always check your breaks and engine before you go out, and never forget to take your car monthly to get it checked and repair any parts that need to be repaired or replaced before any short or long trips in your car.
Consult a Lawyer
However, some accidents cannot be prevented when you’re at the wrong place and time. Driving carefully isn’t enough sometimes since not all drivers are as careful and alert when on the road. If ever involved in an accident which you did not cause or mainly wasn’t your fault, consult an experienced lawyer on car accidents like https://munley.com/car-accident-lawyer/ that can help you file a complaint, settle insurance and damages.
