Road Safety Essentials for Every Driver
Not being aware of or following road safety can lead to accidents. That’s why every driver must be educated on road safety protocols. Whether it’s for work, picking up kids from school or practice, visiting family, or numerous other reasons, driving a car is an essential part of people’s routine. But such convenience comes with risk. Being vigilant helps mitigate such risks.
Essentials of Road Safety
Many people might not realize the complexities of traffic laws. However, instead of diving deep, you should begin by keeping certain essentials of road safety in mind.
Vehicle Maintenance
Whether you’re caring for a luxury car or an older family one, a well-maintained vehicle lowers the risk of any malfunction that might lead to an unfortunate accident with another vehicle, person, or the environment you’re driving in.
While going to a mechanic is recommended, make it a habit to regularly inspect some of the small yet important aspects of your car.
Tire Check
Before going for a drive you should give your tires a look. Inspect for tread depth and tire pressure. A worn-out or underinflated tire can lead to accidents due to reduced traction and braking issues.
Brake System
In a sense, a car’s brake is the first line of defense against accidents. You can ensure proper brake function by inspecting the brake pads and brake fluid. Don’t ignore any issues you might sense with the brake while driving. Get them fixed immediately.
Lights and Signals
Vehicle lights and signal indicators are there for a reason. They are meant to help with visibility during low-light situations and let other drivers know your trajectory when making turns, etc. So, ensure all lights and signals function properly.
Safe Driving Practices
You should demonstrate safe driving habits even when driving alone on a road. Safe driving practices go a long way in preventing accidents.
Traffic Laws
Of course, the most important safe driving rule is to follow traffic laws. You should obey the speed limits, road signs, traffic signals, and other rules. Such traffic regulations are present for safety and smoother flow of traffic.
Don’t be Distracted
It can be easy to want to text or answer a call while driving. Refrain from doing so. Texting and driving cause a lot of accidents. The same goes for trying to adjust the radio and eating while driving. Focus on the road.
Maintaining Safe Distances
Keep a safe distance between other vehicles, including bike riders. Maintaining a safe distance gives you time to react if the risk of collision increases. If you’re following another car, be 3 to 4 seconds away from them. If you are bypassing a cyclist, keep your distance when doing so. Be patient and follow the rules of yielding in traffic.
Bad Weather
Be vigilant when driving in bad weather. Ensure the vehicle is properly adapted to the weather conditions. Though recommended against, if you have no choice but to drive, you should reduce speed and increase vehicle distance when driving in rain, fog, and snow.
Handling Roadside Emergencies
Even when following all of the traffic rules, roadside emergencies can still happen. To be prepared for such instances, you can research and learn about how to handle unfortunate situations as efficiently as possible.
Vehicle Accidents
In case of a roadside accident, always check for possible injuries. You should prioritize the safety of the parties involved. Always exchange contact information and report the accident to the proper authorities. Do not admit your fault and let the law decide that. Avoid aggressive confrontation. Acting swiftly and collecting accident details can help with insurance and other legal proceedings.
Handling a car-on-car and a car-on-cyclist accident can differ depending on the State. For example, since Tennessee is not considered the safest for cyclists, getting into a car-on-cyclist accident can mean trouble for you as the driver. Having the contact information of a car accident lawyer in Springfield can help you learn the details. The same goes for any State you might be driving in.
Vehicle Breakdowns
In case of a vehicle breakdown, you should try to safely pull over to the side of the road. Remember to turn on your hazard lights to alert and be predictable to other drivers. You should always have the contact information of a reliable roadside assistance service.
Conclusion
As a driver, you should be proactive when adhering to traffic rules. You can’t always depend on others to help mitigate roadside accidents. So do your part by driving safely, not being distracted, using the correct signals, and such. Also, read up on traffic law to know your rights if an accident occurs.