We live in a society where most of us have to drive: to work, take the kids to school, pick up groceries, and the numerous other chores of daily life. Every time you get in the car there’s the potential for an accident, but these simple car accident prevention tips can help keep you safe while driving.
#1: Eliminate Distractions
One of the most important car accident prevention tips is to turn off all devices, including your phone. If you must have your phone on, make sure that you have hands-free capability, preferably voice-activated, so you can keep both hands on the wheel at all times. Distractions also include eating while driving, applying makeup, reading, studying, and even playing loud music. If there are children in the car, urge them to be still and well-behaved.
#2: Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Look ahead to identify traffic situations. If you are driving near a school or park, watch for children dashing into the street. If traveling in the country, watch for deer and other wildlife, especially near cornfields and forests.
#3: Know Your Blind Spots
Always make sure you are completely checking your own blind spots, and be aware of blind spots that other vehicles may have. Big trucks are particularly important to pay attention to. Just remember, if you can’t see their mirrors, they can’t see you.
#4: Plan Rest Stops
If you are traveling a long distance, first make sure you know the route and research to see if there are construction situations or other significant traffic events. One of the best car accident prevention tips is to plan breaks along your route. Fatigued driving, sometimes referred to as “drowsy driving,” is impaired driving, and is very dangerous.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2013, drowsy driving was responsible for 72,000 crashes, 44,000 injuries, and 800 deaths, while other authorities believe these numbers are low, and that drowsy driving was responsible for about 6,000 fatal crashes. If you feel yourself getting very stressed, take a break, get out of the car, and walk around for a while.
#5: Use Your Headlights
Headlights should be on whenever you are driving, even on bright sunny days. Glare from windshields can make your car nearly invisible, and light-colored automobiles can blend into the scenery. Headlights are your beacon of safety.
At Cascade Collision, we want you and your loved ones to be safe at all times. If an unfortunate accident does occur and you have questions about auto body work and repair, please contact us online or stop at one of our convenient Utah locations for a free quote.
