Although nearly all of us must drive a vehicle in our daily lives just to be able to get to and from work and other functions, it is one of the most dangerous activities we can do.
The number of fatal accidents involving vehicles is staggering, and automobile accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, changing individual’s lives forever. Contact a Melbourne Fl car accident attorney if you have been injured in an automobile accident.
Following is a list of safety tips for driving on the highway that will not only protect you from becoming involved in an automobile accident, but they could save your life.
Defensive Driving
One of the best things that you can do for you own personal safety and well-being is to practice defensive driving. Basically what this means is that you are not the aggressor in questionable situations and includes the following basics:
- Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, always following at a safe distance in relation to your speed.
- Use the appropriate lane
- Use your blinkers and look over your shoulder before changing lanes because there is always a blind spot in mirrors.
- Apply brakes only when necessary
- Be alert and pay attention to the vehicles around you; front, side, and rear.
Construction Zones and Road Conditions
Always be on high alert when driving near construction zones, especially during the evening hours when it’s dark on the roadways. These zones are extremely hazardous and often require people brake suddenly and drive at slower speeds. There may also be over sized heavy equipment and construction workers in the dark.
Where there is construction there is likely to be some rough road conditions as well. Be on the lookout for potholes, road debris, wet spots, and ice in certain weather conditions.
Entering and Exiting the Highway
One of the most dangerous and common mistakes drivers make happens as they enter onto the highway and when they exit off of the highway. This is incredibly dangerous because if not done correctly, other cars are affected and react, which can easily cause a multi-vehicle pile-up. Follow these simple steps in your approach and exit from the highway:
While you are on the on-ramp and making your approach to the highway, you should get on the gas if necessary in order to be going the speed limit (55mph minimum) or with the flow of traffic. Turn your left blinker on as early as possible to alert other drivers. Stay with the flow of traffic or a bit faster and veer over when there is open space, then turn off your blinker. If you choose to change lanes again, do it one lane at a time and always use your blinker.
When exiting the highway, proceed to the furthest right hand lane. Do this one lane at a time while using your blinker. Additionally, if you miss your exit – keep moving forward and do not panic. You can turn around up ahead, so do not be heavy on the brakes because there are vehicles behind you. In fact, you should not have to apply any pressure to the brakes until your lane veers off from the main highway. The NHTSA has more information on driver safety.
Vehicle collisions can have terrible consequences for the injured individuals and others involved; lost wages occur, costly medical expenses must be paid, and several other challenges must be faced. If you or a loved one has been involved in an automobile accident, you should contact Nance Cacciatore immediately for a free consultation. You may be entitled to collect compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, and any pain and suffering as well.
