Auto accidents cause an estimated 40, 000 deaths and 4.5 million injuries in the United States every year. Drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, weather, poor road conditions, and even health conditions are all contributing factors to these alarming statistics. The following statistics can reduce your risk of becoming one of them.
Use Life-Saving Devices When on the Road
Seat belts, motorcycle helmets, and other driving-specific safety devices can not only save your life, but they can also reduce your overall risk of a serious injury. Use them every time, every ride, and for every passenger.
Be of Sound Mind While Behind the Wheel
An estimated 31 percent of all traffic incidents are the result of impaired driving (drunk or drugged driving). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also reports an estimated 100, 000 drowsy driving crashes each year. Even your emotional state should be considered before you get behind the wheel, as stress can hinder your ability to focus while driving.
Adhere to All Traffic Laws
It goes without saying that drivers are far less likely to experience an auto accident if they follow the rules of the road. Pay extra special attention to things like speed, traffic signs, and right-of-way, particularly when at intersections or while driving in congested areas and work zones.
Practice Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is a practice in which drivers not only adhere to the letter of the law, they also assume that others may not. They watch carefully for cars that may breeze through an intersection at a red light, give others more room to maneuver, and are willing to slow down or stop to avoid what could turn into an accident.
Avoid Driving in Hazardous Conditions
Hazardous road conditions can significantly increase your risk of experiencing an auto accident – and not just because of the road itself. Visibility in rain or fog can be limited, other drivers may not be skilled or coherent enough to manage the weather, and accidents can become more severe if roads are wet or icy. As such, drivers are encouraged to avoid driving in hazardous conditions whenever possible. If you simply must drive and cannot avoid it, take extra precautions, such as driving slower and giving other road users more room to maneuver.
Our Appleton Auto Accident Lawyers Can Help You Recover Fair Compensation
Sadly, safety measures cannot prevent every accident, so if you or a loved one are injured in a crash, it is important to know where to turn. The seasoned Green Bay car accident attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. are some of the most skilled and trusted in the state. See what we can do for your case by first scheduling a free initial consultation. Call 920-739-7366 today.
Sources:
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving
https://southfloridareporter.com/safety-tips-that-help-prevent-car-accidents-and-injury/
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatality-estimates