Most Orange County area residents understand the importance of driving safely. Unfortunately, this careful driving doesn’t extend to everyone they meet on the roadways and car accidents still occur. One way in which a driver can be safer on the road is anticipating what the other drivers may do. This is called defensive driving and there are a number of techniques a driver can employ.
- Focus on driving. One of the most important things a driver can do is focus on their own driving. Don’t let cell phones, the radio, or kids distract from driving.
- Slow down. Speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents.
- Expect others to make mistakes. Assume that everyone you meet on the road is a risk, so driving carefully by them is recommended.
- Always wear a seat belt.
- Use safety devices. If possible, purchase a car with a high safety rating and several air bags. Also make sure children are restrained in a properly fitting car seat.
- Use your blinkers. Signaling lane changes and turning into a new road or driveway is important in making sure other drivers are not confused about what you are about to do.
- Stop at a red light. Don’t try and run a red light. This can cause a serious accident and running a red light or speeding through a yellow light can be dangerous.
- Yield to others. It can be habit to speed around other drivers, but it is safer to just let them merge.
- Be careful of road rage. It can be maddening to have other drivers cut you off or do something stupid, but just breathe and let it go. Engaging in any road rage activity is very dangerous.
- Keep a distance between your car and others. If you get too close to the rear of another car you can risk a rear-end collision.
Despite a driver’s best efforts, a car accident may still occur. If a person has been injured in an accident due to no fault of their own, they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can help their client understand what caused the accident and who is at fault. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and other damages.
