It’s estimated that over 20 million drivers and passengers are injured in automobile accidents each year. No matter how skilled you are at driving, you cannot control how others drive. However, you can take precautions to protect yourself and your family while on the road.
Start With Vehicle Safety
When shopping for a vehicle, search for the safest vehicles possible. Do your homework before making a purchase. Be sure to compare consumer satisfaction ratings and safety features.
It’s important to keep your vehicle in good operating condition. Replace tires and brakes regularly—they could make all the difference in a matter of seconds on the road.
You’ll also want to be sure that every driver in your family has auto insurance coverage that includes uninsured and underinsured motorist protection. This coverage will protect you if you are involved in an accident with someone who has insufficient auto insurance or no coverage at all.
Stay Alert
Exercise caution each time you get behind the wheel. Distracted driving is dangerous driving. We don’t have much to contend with in the way of traditional traffic here in southeastern Indiana, but a deer running across a country road can cause devastation and destruction.
No matter the time of day, it’s important to be alert and aware when driving. If you need a few minutes to wake up in the morning, be sure to allow yourself time to drink a cup of coffee and truly wake up before getting on the road. Poor visibility conditions can occur even on clear days; morning sunrises and evening sunsets can cause difficulty as easily as a rainstorm can.
Defense!
Drive defensively. Remember, even your safest driving techniques can’t prevent someone else from driving irresponsibly, so take precautions.
- Buckle your seat belt and ensure that all passengers are buckled in before driving.
- Obey all traffic signals.
- Watch for farm equipment, animals crossing the road, emergency vehicles, and other changes that may affect your daily commute.
- Don’t text and drive.
- Never drive while impaired.
- Leave a safe distance between cars.
If you or a loved one is in an automobile accident, schedule a free consultation with Schuerman Law today. With over forty years of experience with personal injury law and extensive experience with automobile accident cases, the team at Schuerman Law has the experience and knowledge necessary to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
