Car accidents happen on an everyday basis. According to the 2020 Census, there are 10.52 million people who live in the state of Georgia. 1,720 drivers are involved in a Georgia car accident every single day. There were 330,000 crashes in 2020 and of that number of crashes, 1,588 were fatal accidents and 1,730 people were killed.
What increases the likelihood of a car accident?
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury death. There are many factors that can happen that make a car accident more likely to happen. One significant factor is driving in poor road conditions.
Before traveling to your destination, take a look to see what the weather is going to be like while you are driving. If there is currently a snowstorm or one is about to start, then it would be wise to consider waiting until the storm has passed since the roads will be safer.
What can be done to prevent a car accident?
The most important thing you can do when you’re driving a vehicle is to take preventative measures to help you be safe. Every decision you make while driving has an impact on other drivers around you.
- Always wear a seatbelt. Seatbelts save lives!
Even if one person in the car is not wearing a seatbelt, the other people in the car can get injured when an accident occurs. Seatbelts will protect your body from the air bag, which helps you avoid flying through the windshield upon impact.
- Pay attention to your blindspots
You could potentially hit another car if they are in your blind spot and you try to switch lanes. Even if your vehicle has blind spot detectors, you should still check if there is a car in your blindspot before changing lanes. It is safest for you to turn and check in your blind spots rather than relying on your mirrors or detectors.
- Give pedestrians the right of way
Be extra cautious around crosswalks or school zones even if you do not initially see anyone around. In residential areas, you need to be alert to children who could run into the street out of nowhere. Cars are significantly stronger and faster than people, therefore it is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of pedestrians and keep them safe.
- Avoid distractions like cell phones
Cell phones are commonly used for navigation while driving. However, be sure to input your destination into your phone before you start driving. If it is necessary to use your phone, use Bluetooth features to avoid distracted driving. Even if you are trying to quickly respond to a text message, those few seconds of distraction could change your life forever.
- Follow speed limit signs
Speed limit signs are chosen carefully and should be followed. These are to help keep you safe and ensure the safety of other drivers around you. At higher speeds, there’s less time to react which could potentially be harmful if another vehicle is involved.
Monticello Car Accident Lawyer
If you ever find yourself in a car accident, a Monticello car accident lawyer can help you to figure out what your next steps will be. No matter how small or how large of an accident you were in, a free consultation can help determine if you have a case. Chances of you having a case are pretty high if someone else was involved.