5 Tips to Avoid a Serious Car Wreck
No one ever wants to be involved in a car wreck or a lawsuit. Thankfully there are many, many ways to reduce the chances of major car or truck collision.
Here are our Top Five Tips to Avoid a Serious Collision in the greater Memphis and Midsouth area:
1. Pay Attention: In this time of deadline-driven, time-sensitive living, it is not at all uncommon to be answering a cell phone, rummaging through a purse, eating a sandwich, or even putting on makeup while driving. Try to eliminate your distractions so that you are more aware of your surroundings as you navigate the roadways.
2. Don’t Speed: We all admit to driving over the speed limit on occasion, whether it be 5 mph over on a side road or 10 mph over on the freeway. These extra miles add up, though – if you consider that they not only decrease your possible reaction time in a crash but also increase the stored energy that has to be released in an impact, it may make it worth it to slow down a bit and get to your destination safely.
3. Wear Your Seatbelt: It may not be “cool” for your teenager to wear it, but explain to them that the car they’re driving has a very specific mechanism to protect them in case of an accident, and that the seatbelt is a hugely important part of that mechanism. It keeps them snug in the safe zone as the car crumples around them.
4. Communicate While You Drive: Use your signals, make gradual lane transitions, take your time to brake, and leave yourself plenty of room for any moves you want to make. If you and others make an effort to keep the other drivers informed, there will be fewer instances of miscommunication on the road.
5. Keep Space and Pace: Give yourself room between the car in front of you and your front bumper – tailgaters aren’t just annoying, they’re dangerous. And by maintaining a regular driving pace (try not to speed up here, slow down there, zip around this car or that car) you’re creating a predictability that lets other drivers know you won’t suddenly dart over in front of them. Finally, give those trying to merge some space; that two-second delay won’t hurt your commute, and may even save a life.
Remember, you are not alone on the road when you’re alone in your car. Don’t let yourself get caught up in a spilled drink or sending a text back to a friend – you can’t forget that you’re piloting a two-ton vehicle, an effort that requires skill, concentration, and attention. No matter the size of your car or truck, be mindful of others so that you can avoid being involved in a Memphis car wreck or lawsuit!
If you have been involved in an accident and don't know what to do order my FREE book at www.MemphisAccidentBook.com or call anytime to speak to one of our Memphis personal injury lawyers.
