Safe driving might seem like common sense, but the fact is that the majority of car accidents occur as a result of human error and unsafe driving practices. Make sure your journey is safer, regardless of the destination or the distance, by reading our list of safe driving tips. Following the tips below can greatly reduce your chances of a serious or even fatal accident, so consider printing out this page and consider revisiting it periodically in the future.
- Do not drive while intoxicated: This one probably seems obvious, but these days, many individuals underestimate the dangers of driving while buzzed. Any time you consume alcohol, even if you are not legally drunk, your chances of being involved in an accident increase substantially. If you are planning to go to an event or attend a gathering where alcoholic beverages will be served, take a taxi or use a ridesharing service to avoid the possibility of drinking and driving. If you end up attending an impromptu outing that involves drinking, leave your vehicle behind and ask a sober friend to drive you home or take a taxi. Just remember that it is never worth it to risk your safety or your life.
- Do not speed: Like drunk driving, going above the speed limit is against the law, but plenty of people engage in this unsafe driving practice anyway. No matter how late you are, it is crucial to always obey traffic laws and follow the speed limitations that are imposed in any area you are driving in. At best, you might end up getting a nasty traffic ticket that costs hundreds of dollars and, at worst, you might lose your life in a fatal accident.
- Always wear your seat belt: Whether you are only going to the grocery store that is just five blocks away from your home, or embarking on a journey across the country, you and your passengers should always wear a seat belt. Even if you are traveling at a relatively slow speed, not wearing a seat belt can make the effects of even a minor accident worse.
- Be extra cautious when driving in bad weather conditions: Snow, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and fog can all lead to serious accidents when drivers do not exercise extra caution. What might usually be considered safe driving during good weather conditions might not be safe when the roadways are slippery due to rainfall, so you will likely have to reduce your speed, increase the distance between you and the driver ahead of you, and drive carefully through curves. If possible, avoid driving in bad weather altogether until conditions improve.
- Be a defensive driver: Aggressive drivers are often most prone to experiencing accidents compared to those who drive defensively. What is a defensive driver? Maintaining safe distances between vehicles, driving at a safe speed, and remaining calm in heavy traffic are all characteristics of a defensive driver.
- Avoid the presence of distractions: Regardless of what is going on around you, it is imperative that you always keep your focus on the road and the task at hand – driving. Engaging in any activity that divides your attention, such as using a mobile device, eating, grooming, listening to loud music, or reaching for something in your vehicle can all contribute to the occurrence of an accident.
- Never drive when you are drowsy: Fatigued driving is almost as dangerous as driving while intoxicated, so make sure you are well-rested before you get behind the wheel. You should also avoid taking any medications that can potentially make you drowsy or impair your vision and ability to drive.
Car Accident Attorney in Phoenix
If you were recently injured in a motor vehicle accident that was caused by a negligent or careless party, you have a right to pursue fair and just compensation to get back on your feet. At the Rafi Law Group, our car accident attorneys are dedicated to helping injured victims fight to ensure the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions. You should not have to pay for someone else’s mistakes.
Begin your case today and contact our office at (623) 207-1555 to schedule a free case evaluation.