Preventing Accidents

Every year many Americans are killed in motor vehicle accidents, even more are seriously injured. Typically serious auto accidents happen due from some sort of negligence of one or more drivers. There are many reasons a driver can be negligent. Perhaps they were speeding or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However there are other factors that may influence the severity of auto accidents.

Poor weather conditions

Environmental conditions can be a major safety hazards on the roads today. When environmental conditions are combined with driver negligence the risk involved increases dramatically. For example if the posted speed limit is 55 and there is heavy snow and ice on the roads, it is unlawful to drive 55mph on that road. Special caution must be used in these unsafe driving conditions. In some parts of the US there is snow almost year round, in these areas there are more accidents due to road conditions. It’s not always just snow and ice, heavy rain and wind are also major factors.

So what can be done? First we must remove as much driver fault as possible. Is your vehicle in the proper condition to handle the conditions? If you drive a small car that frequently slides in snow, it would be unwise to take it out in the snow. As opposed to a new truck equipped with snow tires. It may seem like a ‘no brainer’ however many times drivers at negligently and think they will be able to make it just fine. This is not always the case. If the conditions are so poor you think your vehicle is not able to make it – do not make the trip. It’s not worth the risk for an accident; you may be hurting yourself or someone else. If there is heavy snow and your car is capable of handling the weather there are other things you do to further reduce the risk of danger. First and foremost; warm your car up. Start it 10 minutes before you leave. Make sure the front, side and rear windows are free of ice and you can see clearly. This is another common mistake drivers can make. If your view is blocked even partially, you are putting yourself and others at serious risk. Once on the road make sure you give other drivers plenty of space. Just because your vehicle may be properly equipped, that does not mean others are. Other cars on the road need extra time to stop in poor weather conditions. It’s important you remember this. Use extra caution at intersections and red lights. If for any reason you do loose control it is important to remain calm. Immediately lay off the accelerator and tap the breaks. Slamming on your breaks may put you totally out of control. However tapping the breaks may help you gain control. Also try not to jerk the steering wheel in either direction. That may cause your vehicle to spin out of control. Remember to always mind your speed in poor weather conditions.

• Before setting off, be sure to put on your seatbelt. Check side and rearview mirrors to make certain they are in the correct position. Keep your headrest level with the middle of your ear. Doing these things before you are actually driving will help keep your focus on the road.
• While driving, keep a watchful eye on your surroundings. Check side and rearview mirrors often to be aware of vehicles around you. Try to not only to watch not just the vehicle in front of you, but a few vehicles ahead. This will be more prepared for problems ahead or sudden stops. Double check blind spots before changing lanes.
• Avoid distractions. If you need to retrieve an object from the floor, consult a map, place a call or do anything that would require you to remove your eyes from the road, find a place to pull over and do so. Consider using a headset for your cell phone if you must talk and drive.
• Keep your vehicle in good condition. Have the oil changed regularly and other have other fluid levels checked as well. Keep an eye on your tires, have new ones put on when they start to lose tread, or when you are scheduled to get new ones according to your mileage.
• Be familiar with the way your vehicle handles. Does it drive poorly in foul weather such as snow or rain? How well do your brakes work? Do your tires have good grip? All these factors can be essential when getting to know your vehicle and its capabilities.
• Reconsider before setting out in the dark or in foul weather. Night driving and driving in bad weather can be especially hazardous. The dark decreases visibility, and increases the likelihood of intoxicated or fatigued drivers being on the road, along with your own possible fatigue presenting danger. Weather conditions such as rain or snow also decrease visibility, not to mention decreasing stopping time.
• Be especially careful when driving through intersections. Slow down and look both ways even if your light is green. Intersections can be very dangerous and are where most accidents happen.
• Speed limits and road signs are there for a reason and should be obeyed. They establish the conditions that make the road the safest they can possibly be.