When you are away from home on vacation you’ll be doing a lot of traveling, whether thats a transfer to/from an airport, driving a rental car or using the vehicle of friends and family you are staying with. You’ll be driving an unfamiliar vehicle on unfamiliar roads with road customs and rules that may be different from those you are used to.
Most people have great trips with no problems encountered but should something happen its important to be prepared and know what to do. This advice is tailored to driving in the US but it is largely relevant for wherever you are.
In the US, there were more than 39k fatal car motor vehicle accidents in 2021, where 42,939 people died. And in 2022, 42,795 people died. That’s a lot of deaths that could have been avoided. Driving safely and avoiding accidents requires focus, caution, and defensive driving skills. Here are some tips to help avoid car accidents on the road:
Photo source: https://pixabay.com/photos/accident-crash-tree-automobile-car-2161956/
Driving Safety Tips
Be Alert and Minimize Distractions – Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents, with 3k deaths every year. Do not send texts, chat on the phone, or anything else that takes your eyes and attention off the road. Be alert to what’s happening around you at all times.
Obey Traffic Laws – Follow all traffic signs, signals, speed limits, and laws. They are designed to keep traffic orderly and safe. Always yield right of way when appropriate.
Drive Defensively – Be aware of other drivers around you and be prepared to react. Assume other drivers will make mistakes and drive aggressively. Give yourself space and time to avoid dangerous situations.
Check Blind Spots – NHTSA data shows there are 840k blind spot accidents every year in the US. Always check your rearview mirror and side mirrors before changing lanes or merging to avoid hitting someone in your blind spots. Turn your head and glance over your shoulder as well.
Avoid Impaired and Fatigued Driving – Drowsy or impaired driving dramatically increases accident risk – 37 people die each day due to drunk-driving. Make sure you are well-rested and sober when driving. Pull over if you feel too tired or impaired to drive safely.
Slow Down in Bad Weather – Reduce speed when roads are wet, icy, or snowy. Give yourself ample stopping distance. Turn on headlights so others can see you.
Get Car Check-Ups – Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections help avoid breakdowns or tire blowouts that could lead to accidents. Replace worn tires right away.
What to Do After a Car Accident
If you find yourself involved in a car accident, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Pull Over and Stop – Get your vehicle safely out of traffic and come to a stop. Turn on hazard lights and set the parking brake.
- Check for Injuries – If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Do not move injured persons unless there is further danger. Provide basic first aid if you can safely do so.
- Call the Police – Alert police of the accident and location. Many states legally require you to report accidents. Avoid admitting fault.
- Exchange Information – Share your name, contact info, insurance details, driver’s license, and vehicle registration with the other driver(s). Get their info as well.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of damage, skid marks, vehicle positions, and any accident evidence from different angles. Get witness info if available. Your lawyer will need this information to build a strong case.
- File a Report – Provide a full honest account of the accident to authorities. File claims with your insurance promptly. Call them right away to start the process.
- Get Contact Info of Witnesses – If any witnesses saw the accident happen, obtain their names and contact information. Their accounts could help determine fault later.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you don’t have obvious injuries, see a doctor soon after the accident. Symptoms of whiplash, concussion, or internal bleeding may appear later.
- Seek Legal Help – Car accident lawyers can help you negotiate with the insurance company to maximize the compensation you deserve.
Staying calm and following these steps can help ensure any car accident situations are handled properly, safely, and according to the law. Focusing on safe driving in the first place remains the best way to avoid accidents.
