Minimizing the Risk of a Car Accident

Although a car accident isn’t predictable, there are some things every motorist can do to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash. By taking these precautions, you, your passengers, and other drivers can stay safer on Texas roads.

Drive Defensively

Driving defensively means that you engage in driving strategies to help you identify hazards so that you can use your driving skills to avoid a potential accident. If you haven’t already, there are many benefits to taking a defensive driving course. Not only will you learn how to drive safer on the road, but you may also get a discount on your insurance rates.

Don’t Tailgate

Tailgating happens when a motorist drives too closely behind another vehicle — and is one of the most dangerous and reckless driving habits that causes severe injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), it takes as long as a football field to stop your car at 55 MPH and half a football field when going 30 MPH. Should a car stop short in front of you, you won’t have enough room to react safely, and the result will surely be a rear-end collision.

Limit Distractions

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each day in the U.S., approximately 9 people are killed, and more than 1,000 are injured in crashes that involve distracted drivers. When driving your vehicle, be sure to avoid the following:

• Texting or talking on the phone
• Eating or drinking
• Playing with the navigation system or radio
• Tending to children in the backseat

If you must do any of the above activities, pull over to a safe place on the side of the road.

Keep Up with Car Maintenance

From faulty breaks to tire blowouts, keeping up with regular maintenance on your car can help you avoid being involved in a severe crash. If you haven’t had routine maintenance done on your vehicle in a while, here’s what you should look out for:

• Electrical system for malfunctions
• Wiper blades for wear and tear
• Tires for wear and tear
• Proper fluid levels
• Brakes are working properly
• Clogged air filters
• Lights are in working condition

Injured in a Car Accident? Bandas Law Firm, P.C. Can Help

Even when you know the basics of approaching a car accident claim, dealing with insurance companies can be complicated. Our car accident attorneys understand the laws and how to deal with insurance companies that don’t always cooperate when it comes to proper settlements. Let us help you recover the money you deserve from your car accident.