All posts tagged most common auto craches

Many car crashes every year could be avoided with just a few changes in driver behavior. People often memorize the rules in the DMV’s driver handbook before getting or renewing their license, but fail to follow them in daily driving. The following are five things you can do to help avoid a car crash, and keep you safe and alert on the road.

Don’t Drive Distracted

Texting is one of the most distracting and dangerous things you can do while driving. It takes your eyes off the road, and takes control of the steering wheel out of your hands. Talking on the phone, even with a hands-free setup, takes your attention away from driving as well. Pull over if you need to use your cell phone. You should be aware of all your other distractions as well. Putting on makeup, eating, changing the radio, or even talking to a passenger can take your mind off your tasks. Make sure you use caution and try to avoid anything that takes away your attention.

Distance

Following too close is a major cause of car crashes and minor fender benders. Staying at least one car length behind the car in front of you is the commonly accepted rule, but is difficult in slow traffic. The Lucky Law Firm suggests you stay as far back as possible and be alert for sudden stops, or people attempting to pull between you and the car in front of you.

Lane Changes

Failure to signal a turn or lane change causes many accidents. This is especially true in heavy traffic, or if the driver behind you is driving too close to your car. Always use your turn signals, and try to avoid sudden lane changes.

Stopping

Drivers often become lazy about obeying stop signs, and many just don’t understand signals on traffic lights. Always come to a full stop at a stop sign. A “rolling stop” doesn’t give you time to make sure the road is clear. Failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign is a common cause of traffic tickets. A yellow light on a standard traffic light is a signal to stop. It’s not a signal to speed up to avoid stopping for the red light. A yellow arrow on a traffic light also signals that you should stop. Also be aware of the rules when traffic lights go out. Treat the intersection as a four way stop and pay attention to who stops first, as they have the right of way.

Speeding

Speeding is always dangerous. Speeding at night, or in bad weather raises your chances of a crash. Even a damp road increases the time it takes you to slow down or stop. Be aware of your surroundings and always use caution. You might not drive the same on that windy road home when it’s raining.

Following basic traffic rules can decrease your chances of a car crash, but nothing can make you immune from a fender bender or auto accident. If you’ve been involved in an accident, consult a law firm specializing in traffic accidents or a Baton Rouge accident attorney, and make sure that you are aware of all your legal rights and options.