Car accidents are costly, depleting your savings and putting a financial strain on your family. They also lead to injuries, some of which are life-threatening and cause immense emotional pain and suffering. Be knowledgeable about the causes of car accidents and how to avoid them. When you do your part, you make roads safer for everyone. Here are tips for avoiding costly car accident.
Have the Contact Details of a Reputable Car Accident Lawyer
Although this doesn’t help in avoiding an accident, have the contact details of a knowledgeable and reputable lawyer. If you are involved in an accident, you’ll need legal representation to ensure that you are fairly compensated.
A good car accident attorney will advise you on the best course of action to take and help you navigate the complex legal system. You could end up paying costly medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other accident-related expenses out of your pocket without a competent attorney. You might also be liable for some of the damages if the other driver decides to sue you.
Get Adequate Car Insurance Coverage for costly car accident
Most states have minimum insurance requirements, but these are often not enough to cover the full extent of damages caused by accidents. To avoid being underinsured, it’s advisable to get comprehensive collision coverage.
This type of insurance protects you from paying out of pocket for damages sustained in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Also, get uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which protects you from being sued by the other driver if they don’t have adequate insurance to cover the damages.
Drive Defensively
Defensive driving is one of the best ways to avoid accidents. Pay attention to your surroundings and be on the lookout for potential hazards. Anticipate what other drivers might do and always give yourself an escape route. Avoid driving in bad weather conditions and never get behind the wheel when tired. Also, follow the posted speed limits and never tailgate.
Keep Your Car in Good Condition
You can avoid many accidents simply by keeping your car in good condition. Always check your tires before going on a long drive to have enough tread. Replace the windshield wipers regularly and keep your headlights clean.
Follow the recommended service schedule for your car to avoid mechanical problems while on the road. If your vehicle needs repairs, don’t put them off. The sooner you get them done, the less likely you will be involved in an accident.
Avoid Distractions While Driving
Distractions while driving such as talking on the phone, texting, eating, drinking, and adjusting the radio take your focus off the road. If you must do any of these things, pull over to a safe area first. Also, don’t drive when angry, stressed, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These can all impair your judgment and reaction time, making accidents more likely.
When young children are on board, have another adult in the car to help, enabling you to focus on driving. If you must drive solo with children, keep them quiet and occupied with books, toys, or other quiet activities. Make frequent stops to stretch your legs and take a break from driving on long journeys.
Buckle Up
Seat belts cut the risk of severe injury or death in an accident by 50 percent, yet many people still don’t wear them. Always buckle up, even for short trips. Ensure everyone in the car is properly restrained using a seat belt or child safety seat. Explain to older children the importance of always wearing a seat belt. However, don’t let them ride in the front seat until they are 13 years old.
Caution Keeps You Safe
One of the best ways to avoid accidents is to obey traffic laws. Come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, yield to pedestrians, use your turn signals, and don’t make illegal turns. In bad weather, take extra care to drive slowly and allow for more following distance between you and the car in front of you.
You’ll avoid costly car accident with some knowledge and extra caution. If you, unfortunately, find yourself in an accident, contact an experienced car accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve. Check out more automotive news in our blogs.
