Whether you drive a compact or a massive semi-truck, practicing defensive driving can save lives. In locations like California, traffic is heavy throughout the day and there are many instances where vehicles may enter dangerous situations. Defensive driving skills can help you observe, predict, and avoid potential car accidents in California. Practice these defensive driving techniques to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Reduce Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the most often-cited causes of car accidents in California, according to car accident personal injury attorneys (also known as Abogados de lesiones personales por accidentes de auto en California) and highway patrol. Though most people know texting and driving is a major offense, other behaviors can also qualify as distracted driving, too. Eating, talking to passengers, adjusting car settings, and searching for items in your car also count as severe distractions that cause numerous car accidents in California and nationwide. Try to reduce your distractions by adjusting car settings before you start driving, placing your cell phone in an out-of-reach place to curb temptation, and keeping your eyes forward, instead of on your passengers. If you really need to answer a text message or find something you dropped, pull over instead.
Scan the Road
Too often, especially on long drives, we find our minds drifting away, even though our eyes stay forward. This “highway hypnosis” is extremely common but is also very dangerous. Highway hypnosis can cause reduced reaction time and blocks out input from your other senses, potentially resulting in a failure to yield to pedestrians, traffic lights, and even emergency vehicles. Scan the road actively with your eyes and observe what is ahead to ensure you don’t fall into the hypnosis trap. Keep an eye out for your next turn, upcoming traffic pattern changes, and any erratic behavior from other drivers which could be dangerous.
Share the Road
It may feel like a no-brainer but being a cautious and conscientious driver can help you stay out of a car accident. This includes using turn signals for lane changes, avoiding tailgating, and abiding by all posted speed limits. Steer clear of other vehicles that are weaving through lanes, speeding excessively, or acting aggressively to other drivers. Though this behavior may be upsetting, it’s safer to allow them to pass without engaging. Engaging an erratic or aggressive driver by brake checking, racing, or trying to pass can endanger you and others.
If You Get into an Accident
We can control our actions, but we can’t always control others’. Even for the most defensive driver, car accidents can still happen. If you’re caught in a car accident, it’s important to move to a safe location, if possible. Calling for medical attention could help reveal any masked injuries you or others may have incurred during the car accident. Try to stay calm as you collect the other party’s contact and insurance information, record witness statements, and as you provide statements to the police. If you’re severely injured, seek treatment immediately. Insurance claim filing needs can be addressed after you’re out of danger.
Protect Yourself and Others While Driving
California boasts one of the highest rates of car and truck accidents in the country. If you’re injured in a car accident in California, you could consider your financial and legal options before accepting an insurance company settlement for your injury. To do this, many people may request a free consultation from personal injury attorneys like those also known as Abogados de lesiones personales en California at Abogados Fuertes to understand what their rights are. After a case evaluation with a car accident lawyer, victims can determine if a personal injury lawsuit is right for them.
