Staying Safe on the Road
Driving on Ohio roads can be extremely dangerous. In 2017, the Ohio Department of Public Safety reported there was 303,298 traffic crashes leading to 108,801 injuries and 1,179 fatalities. That is approximately three fatal car crashes every day. With roads being more dangerous than ever, especially now during the icy months of winter, how can one stay safe behind the wheel? Here are some tips and tricks to help keep yourself accident-free for all of 2019.
Following Too Closely
Also referred to as “tailgating,” following too closely to the vehicle in front of you is an aggressive driving technique that frequently leads to accidents. Of the 303,298 accidents in 2017, 87,484 of them were rear-end collisions. It is recommended that drivers should stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front of them.
Improper Lane Changing
Improper lane changing accidents typically happen on roads with two or more lanes, with drivers trying to incorrectly merge into a different lane. These types of accidents often involve multiple vehicles and can be one of the more dangerous accidents that can occur. Always make sure to use your turn signal, check your blind spot, and eliminate all distractions when changing lanes. Remember, look twice and you might save a life!
Avoid Excessive Speeding
While you might be tempted to drive faster than the posted limit when you are running late, there is a reason why the speed limit exists. Your reaction time is cut short when you are speeding, making it more difficult for you to stop in time to prevent an accident. Being a few minutes late is better than a speeding ticket or a wrecked car!
Eliminate All Distractions
There should only be one focus when you are behind the wheel of your car: The Road! Looking away to check your phone, eat food, talk to friends etc. takes precious seconds away from your reaction time, which could be the difference standing between you and an accident. Your text message can wait.
Do Not Drink and Drive
The deadliest cause of car accidents in Ohio is due to drinking and driving. If you find yourself out drinking, be responsible and give the keys to a sober friend or call yourself an Uber or a Lyft. One poor decision can change the rest of your life, and potentially somebody else's.
If you get hurt in an Ohio car accident, reach out to the lawyers at Walton + Brown, LLP. We can help you determine liability and may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call
Disclaimer:
The materials available on this page are for informational purposes only and not for providing legal advice. If you still have questions about car accidents or personal injuries, it would be best to contact an attorney to obtain advice with respect to these issues or problems. Use and access to this website or any of the links contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship.
Sources Used: https://www.knrlegal.com/2017-ohio-traffic-crash-statistics/
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