An auto collision can change the trajectory of your life in a heartbeat. If you suffer a catastrophic or disabling injury in such an incident, you might never be able to work or participate in life in the same way again.
If you’re fortunate, you might be able to seek monetary damages in court to pay for your lost income, medical care, pain and suffering and other expenses — but getting financial compensation pales in comparison to a life enjoyed free of injuries.
Prevent car accidents before they happen
Many drivers forget how important it is to stay attentive and follow the rules of the road while driving. They forget how dangerous driving in an automobile actually is. Regardless of how good of a driver you think you are, be sure to review the following car accident prevention safety tips — they just might save your and your family’s lives.
- Go slow into traffic: Why are you in a rush to arrive only a few minutes earlier? It’s better to go slowly, stop and look, and listen for anything out of the ordinary before you enter into traffic.
- Keep an eye out for stop sign and red light runners: No one tends to burn through a red light or stop sign on purpose. This often happens because drivers aren’t paying attention. You need to account for this, and keep a lookout for drivers who aren’t slowing down at intersections. Be ready to take evasive action fast!
- Don’t let go of the steering wheel, ever: It seems obvious but you need to keep at least one hand on your steering wheel at all times. Don’t take your hands off and try to drive with your knees. This will slow your ability to react if you need to take evasive action.
- Look out for children: Kids act in unpredictable ways. If you see a child, slow down and give him or her plenty of space, so you can react if he or she jumps out into the road unexpectedly.
- Keep your car in good maintenance: A well maintained car stops faster, turns faster, accelerates faster and is more capable of avoiding a crash.
- Watch 12 seconds ahead of you: Try to watch the road at a point where you’re going to be in 12 seconds. This will give you extra time to respond to potential obstacles.
Use your common sense
Probably the most valuable piece of advice – if drivers would only be capable of following it – is to use your common sense. Stay alert and attentive and you’ll avoid getting into the majority of car accidents. You’ll also avoid needing to pursue an injury lawsuit for financial damages in court.