Common Driving Habits That Can Lead to Accidents
Posted on March 16th, 2018 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
When you drive on a regular basis, you’re bound to make mistakes on occasion. However, some of these mistakes can cause serious car accidents. It’s important to be more aware of your actions while behind the wheel to protect yourself and others on the road. Here are some common driving habits that can lead to accidents:
Texting and Driving
Despite all the warnings against texting and drivers, many drivers still continue to do it. If you are sitting at a red light, it might not seem like a big deal to respond to your friend’s text message. However, even typing a few words can divert your attention from the road and cause an accident. That’s why you should wait until you’re parked at a safe spot to answer texts.
Failing to Use Turn Signals
It’s important to always use your turn signals, even if your on a residential street with little traffic. Turn signals let the drivers behind you know that you are slowing down and will be making a turn soon. If you fail to signal, the vehicle behind you may not have enough time to slow down and rear end your car.
Braking Hard
If you change your mind about where you want to go or miss a turn, you may hit your brakes very hard. Unfortunately, this can cause you to rear end the vehicle in front of you. Try to avoid braking suddenly as best as you can.
Not Wearing a Seatbelt
Even if you are just driving down the road to the grocery store, you should always wear your seatbelt. In the event of an accident, a seatbelt can protect you from suffering serious injuries. Failing to wear a seatbelt can also result in a traffic ticket, so it’s best just to always keep yours on while behind the wheel.
Not Slowing Down in Bad Weather
While it is best to stay home when the weather is bad, sometimes you have to be somewhere. If you have to drive when it’s raining or snowing, you should drive at a slower speed. Otherwise, your car can slip on wet pavement and crash into other vehicles.
Eating
If you are quite busy in the morning, you might eat your breakfast in the car to save time. However, eating while you drive can divert your attention from the road, increasing the risk of an accident. Try to wake up a little earlier in the morning so that you have time to eat breakfast at home.
If you were hurt in a car accident that was another driver’s fault, you may want to speak to a car accident lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation. Common damages in a car accident case include medical bills, lost wages, property damage and pain and suffering. A skilled lawyer may help you gather necessary evidence, communicate with insurance adjusters, fill out important paperwork and represent you in court. In the event that you need legal advice, do not hesitate to contact auto accident lawyer Lakeland, FL
Thank you to David and Philpot Personal Injury Law for providing the key insight on common driving habits that lead to accidents.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
