One of the reasons there are so many accidents is that there are too many really bad drivers on the road. Are you one of them? Most people tend to think that they excel behind the wheel. But the reality is that too many of us have become too comfortable behind the wheel and have gotten sloppy when it comes to basic safety measures. To help ensure that you are not the cause of an accident, follow these basic safe driver tips:
- Drive alcohol and drug free: Okay, so this is not rocket science, but drivers who are not impaired by alcohol and other drugs make much better drivers. Drugs, like alcohol can interfere with a driver’s ability to make good decisions on the road. Each year impaired drivers seriously injure and kill too many innocent individuals. Err on the side of caution and drive with a clear head.
- Minimize or eliminate distractions: Distracted drivers are a top cause of accidents. Drivers who are talking on a cell phone or texting do not have their full attention on the road. If you do need to use a cell phone, have it be hands free or better yet, pull over to safe spot. By doing this you also set a great example for the “future drivers” in your car.
- Both hands on the wheel at all times: If you need to swerve to miss a deer crossing the road or another vehicle who has suddenly come into your lane, you need both of your hands to do so. In a moment like this, a driver does not have time to put down a hot cup of coffee to make the necessary maneuver. Be smart and always drive with both hands on the wheel.
- Allow plenty of time to make it to your destination: Whether you are headed to work or to an appointment give yourself enough time to make it to your destination. When a driver is under a time crunch to make it some place on time, he or she tends to take engage in accident causing behaviors. Driving too fast, following too closely behind, and failing to come to a complete stop can all lead to close-calls and of course, accidents.
- Familiarize yourself with blind spots: Many times accidents are caused because the driver of one vehicle reports not being able to have seen the vehicle he or she hit. One reason a driver could not see another vehicle is because the car he or she hit was in his or her blind spot. It is especially critical to be aware of blind spots when driving around semi-tractor trailers. Remember, if you cannot see a driver’s mirrors, he or she likely cannot see you.
- Make three checks before your leave: Every driver should check three things before they even leave their driveway. First, check your car to make sure all things are in working order and that that seat and mirrors are adjusted properly. Second, check your route to see if you can avoid any unnecessary traffic congestion or construction. Lastly, make a check of the weather to see if any severe weather could impact your trip.
- Drive with a calm, cool and well-rested head: Your best safety measure is you. If you are suffering from fatigue or a case of road rage, you are not in the best mental shape to hit the road. You do not have to be a NASCAR driver to realize that driving takes a lot out of a person. Be physically and mentally prepared to hit the road.
If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a collision, the experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. can help. Our experienced team of Kansas City Injury Attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. You can trust the Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to help you as they have helped countless injury victims around the area, in both Kansas and Missouri. We invite you to contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-HOPE (4673) to schedule an initial consultation. Our caring and hardworking injury attorneys will make it easier to get back on your feet.