Attorney
Car Accident Lawyer Offers Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland Drivers Safe Driving Tips
As a motorist, it is your duty to drive safely. You have rules to follow, and you must do your part to avoid an accident or causing harm to other motorists, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
If you cause an accident because you fail to follow these laws, you could be held liable for the accident and injuries you cause.
For most motorists, driving becomes too routine. It is easy to ignore what you are doing behind the wheel and mindlessly drive from Point A to Point B. When you do this, however, you are increasing the risks of an accident.
Here are 5 Ways to Boost Your Driving Safety Right Now
Whether you are mindlessly driving to and from work every day, talking on the phone, or speeding to make your next appointment, now is the time to correct these bad habits and become a safer driver.
While you may not have gotten traffic citations, do not allow this fact to lead you to the assumption that you are the world’s safest driver. Instead, consider these five must-do safety tips to improve your skill and ensure you are not falling into the dangerous routine of mindless driving.
- Keep the Cellphone Away – Your cellphone has a time and place for its use, and that is not while your hands are on the steering wheel. Cellphones are highly distracting – whether talking, texting, or just reading a message you have received. Stay safe by keeping your phone out of reach while driving. If notification sounds make you distracted, turn your phone to silent.
- Get Enough Sleep – Getting enough sleep each night is equally important. In fact, most Americans do not get enough sleep each night. When you are drowsy, you can fall asleep at the wheel. Even if you stay awake completely, you may have a slowed reaction time. Aim for at least six to seven hours each night so that you are well-rested.
- Maintain Your Vehicle – Vehicle maintenance is not an inconvenience; it is a necessary safety tool. Make sure your vehicle has working brakes, adequate tire tread, and all safety systems are checked with each oil change.
- Avoid Mindless Driving – Mindless driving is easier if you take the same route to work or school consistently. Change up your routine each week and take a different route to keep yourself alert.
- Use Your Mirrors and Checks – Pedestrians and cyclists are hard to see – the same for motorcycle riders. As a driver, it is your job to yield the right of way to pedestrians, and if your failure to do so causes an accident, you could be held liable. Always look both ways before turning left or right at an intersection. Also, use your mirrors before opening your door while parked on a busy street – to avoid dooring an oncoming cyclist.
Know Your Rights
If you or a loved one is injured in a motor vehicle accident, you do have rights. When motorists are not paying attention they can cause an accident with resultant serious injuries.
To hold those parties accountable, you need an injury advocate. A Washington, DC accident lawyer helps negotiate with the insurance company, gather evidence, and takes on the tasks associated with filing an injury claim – so that you can focus on recovery.
To see if your case qualifies for compensation, schedule a free case evaluation with a car accident attorney from Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP today.
Contact one of our three office locations or schedule your free case evaluation online.