If you are lucky in all your driving years, you will avoid getting into an accident.
With that in mind, there are things you can be doing now to lessen the odds you will be the next accident victim.
So, what steps should you take as you look to steer clear of an auto accident?
Be Smart with Your Actions Behind the Wheel
In looking to dodge any accidents when you are out on the roads, here are a few pointers to help you out:
- Focus on the road – It goes without saying that focusing on the road when driving is critical. Too many drivers get pre-occupied with other things. It only takes a few seconds of distraction to end up in an accident. Whether that is a head-on, fender-bender, hit and run or other, there’s the potential for injury or worse. Your goal is keep the cell phone off, avoid personal grooming when driving and be alert all around you.
- Your vehicle condition – Are you confident that the vehicle you have will keep you as safe as possible? If you have a car or truck that is not that roadworthy, it may be time to start thinking about another set of wheels. Whether this means a new vehicle or buying a used car, take your time to search. The aim at the end of the day is to have the safest vehicle you can get your hands on. When you do, you can feel more confident each time you take to the road.
- Know weather conditions – There will be times you are going to run into some tough weather. That said the goal is to navigate it as best as possible. So, if you have to deal with such conditions, give yourself some extra time no matter where you need to get to. Keep in mind the conditions are not the same as when the road is clear on a typical day of driving. From rain to snow to ice and more, give yourself extra time. You also want to allow for extra space from others on the road with you.
- Never drive drunk or sleepy – Be upfront, have you ever gotten behind the wheel when tipsy or sleepy? If so, you put yourself and others in harm’s way in doing this. The goal is to always be alert and not risk potential danger. If you had one too many to drink, turn the keys over to one who is sober and can get you where you need to go, preferably home. If you are feeling heavy eyes from being sleepy, determine how far you are from your destination. In the event you are rather far away, see if there is a safe place to pull off the road and catch a nap. Never push yourself and run the risk of an accident. Remember, that accident could change your life and the lives of others for many years to come.
In trying to avoid an auto accident, are you in the driver’s seat or do you need to work more on this effort?
