If you have decades of experience behind the wheel, you’re probably confident about your ability to drive safely. But don’t get too complacent. Human error is a leading cause of car crashes worldwide. Even the best drivers can be involved in serious collisions.
Are you a seasoned driver? Find out whether you’re taking all the best precautions by reviewing this list compiled by the Maryland car accident lawyers at Trollinger Law LLC.
Minimize Distractions
Distracted driving is negligent driving. It’s also incredibly dangerous. It might be tempting to multitask as an experienced driver, but you must resist temptation.
Avoid anything that can take your concentration off the road, such as talking on the phone, texting while driving, adjusting the music, looking at roadside billboards, or reaching for items in the back seat. Eating, applying makeup, and talking to passengers are other distractions that can lead to car crashes.
Always Wear a Seat Belt
Seat belts save lives. If you’re not wearing your seat belt, you’re more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries if you’re involved in a collision. If you have young children in the car, make sure their seat belts fit correctly before leaving home. Set a good example — if you wear your seat belt, your kids are more likely to do it when they drive.
Don’t Drive While Impaired
The hazards of driving while intoxicated are well-known. Drunk or drugged driving impedes reflexes, impairs judgment, and alters driving behavior in dangerous ways.
Keep in mind that illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin are not the only ones that can have debilitating effects. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications may have side effects that can affect your ability to drive safely.
If you’ve been drinking, don’t rely on your years of driving ability to get you home safely. Call a taxi, rideshare service, or use a designated driver before taking a night on the town.
Avoid Drowsy Driving
Research shows that driving while fatigued is nearly as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. When you’re severely fatigued, the reflexes, awareness, and other mental faculties crucial to handling a vehicle safely are all compromised. Get plenty of rest before driving, especially if you know you have a particularly long or challenging drive ahead of you.
Fight the Need for Speed
Basic physics tells us that the faster an object moves, the harder it hits when it collides with another object. Applying this principle to car accidents tells us that there’s a more forceful impact when vehicles collide at high speeds, which means a much higher chance of severe injuries. By following posted signs and watching your speed as you drive, you’ll lower your odds of sustaining a catastrophic injury if you’re in a crash.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Maryland If You’ve Been Hurt
Even if you follow the safety rules that keep us all safe, you can still be hurt if someone else chooses not to follow them. If you were injured in a crash in Maryland, contact the experienced Waldorf injury attorneys at Trollinger Law LLC for help. We have extensive experience helping others just like you to get the compensation they deserve. All initial consultations are free. Call or contact us today to get started.
