There’s no getting away from the fact that accidents do happen . . . which is kind of why they are called accidents . . . however – many “accidents” are actually avoidable which means that they aren’t really accidents at all so we’ll call those accidents “”incidents””. There are a few things you can do which severely cut down on the chances of you being involved in an accident . . . or incident . . . or whatever else you might like to call it.
Remove Distractions
Or at least cut back on them as much as you possibly can. Distracted driving is actually as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol so, in real terms it’s a good idea not to drive while you are drunk, neither is it a good idea to drive while you are distracted. Our high tech world is full of distractions – cell phones, billboards strategically placed at the side of the road, stereo systems, even passengers and children squabbling in the back seat.
So, what can you do about it?
First of all you need to focus on what you’re doing and try not to be distracted at all by billboards (sorry if you’ve paid a large sum to advertise your business, but they really deserve to be ignored). It is also illegal in many states to use a cell phone while driving, which includes speaking and texting so if you need to talk make sure that you have a hands free device in your vehicle.
Remember that roads are dangerous places which deserve your fullest attention.
Don’t Tailgate or Follow Other Vehicles Closely
This is extremely annoying for the driver in front who is being tail gated, and extremely dangerous for everyone else around you. Being tail gated is not only annoying but it also makes you feel very uncomfortable which is one more distraction. It’s also really dangerous if you don’t allow enough of a stopping distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
The way to remember this is by the two second rule, and three seconds when traveling at faster speeds. Make sure that there is at least a two, or three second gap between your vehicle and the one in front at all times.
Obey The Speed Limits
If you are involved in a car accident while speeding then you will be held liable for that accident . . . period. It doesn’t matter if the car pulled out in front of you without looking; the theory is that if you were driving within the speed limits you would have had the chance to stop. If the road conditions are bad due to rain, snow or ice then you should drop your speeds well below the limit. Slow down, stay safe and reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.
Always Fasten Your Seatbelt
Do you know why cars have seatbelts? No, they are not to make you uncomfortable on a long journey or to stop the kids from killing each other on a long road trip . . . they are actually designed to keep everybody in the car as safe as possible. Modern vehicles are designed to crumple on impact and decelerate at a rate which will keep the occupants safe and seatbelts are designed to slow your body down at the same rate as your car.
Many modern cars (like the ones at long beach fiat) are packed with modern safety features but you can still do your part by following these basic rules of the road. Check out the great new models at OC Fiat though, when you get the chance.