In the late 90s, a survey concluded that nearly 10,000 people each year die in car accidents. What’s more is that most of these accidents were a result of reckless driving. We can only assume that numbers are going to go up as more people are using their smartphones and directing their attention elsewhere other than the road. You may have a great insurance policy, but nothing will ever prepare you for what happens when you’re in an accident or you cause one.
There are at least five smart ways to avoid a car wreck! Can you give these a try?
1. Red Light Runners Are Dangerous
Seasoned drivers know the importance of waiting a few seconds before entering any intersections during a green light. Many cars are in a rush and choose to run red lights. Even worse, large 18-wheeler trucks have blind spots that prevent them from grasping the situation. You need to play it safe and give yourself a few seconds before turning.
2. Pay Attention To Kids
It is very common for young kids to pop out from between cars or play in the middle of the road. Even if parents are present and paying attention, they really can’t control their kids every second. Make sure you are completely aware of the potential that this could happen, and if you’re driving in a neighborhood or near a park, make sure to take it slow.
3. Check Behind When Backing Out
It’s not a good driving habit to rely solely on mirrors when backing out of a parking spot. Instead, you should physically look over your shoulder to ensure you won’t get into a fender bender with someone you didn’t clearly see. This is the number one way to get into a car accident, so do pay attention even in a parking lot!
4. Avoid Tailgating
Everyone is in a hurry nowadays, and that means tailgating is a common practice. However, choosing to leave virtually no space between you and the car in the front can lead to a car accident. Don’t cause a wreck that’s easy to avoid with some simple and old fashioned habits. Try the three second rule as that’s the amount of time there should be between you and the car in front.
5. Always Pay Attention
The best way to avoid a car wreck is to simply pay attention to the road. Make sure to have at least one hand on your steering wheel. Make it a point to minimize any distractions you may have and resist the urge to answer your phone, rummage through your glove compartment or do anything else. Choosing to ignore the road and pay attention to other things can end up hurting someone else.
As a driver, you should aim to be courteous and respectful of other drivers. You may feel like rushing home from work or you just run late in the mornings, but ignoring common sense can cause a fatality. Make the necessary changes to your schedule, lifestyle or habits, and you may save a life!