Things That You Can Do to Stay Safe This Fall
Fall’s almost here and that means students across Texas will be returning to school. Of course, that means that there will be substantially more traffic on the roads, particularly in the mornings and afternoons. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the number of motor vehicle accidents goes up in the fall, mostly as a consequence of the increased congestion caused by back-to-school traffic. Let’s look at some simple ways you can reduce the risk of injury in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident.
Minimize Distractions on the Road
Studies show that distracted driving is the most common cause of motor vehicle accidents. The typical ways that motorists are distracted include:
- Using a handheld device, such as a cell phone or tablet, while moving down the road
- Adjusting the stereo
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
- Grooming while driving
- Paying attention to others in the car instead of to the road
- Focusing on roadside attractions
When you’re behind the wheel, your entire focus needs to be on the road. If possible, set your phone up to be hands-free. Engage in other activities before or after driving.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
When you’re running late, it’s easy to lose focus. Anticipate that you might run into traffic and start 10 minutes early. There’s little downside to getting there early, but running late can be a recipe for disaster.
Be Prepared for Weather Issues
Fall can be a time of heavy rain in parts of Texas. In addition, temperature changes from day to night can create dense fog, making visibility difficult or impossible. Check the weather forecast in advance, so that you can plan extra time when needed. Take a look outside to decide if you need to leave earlier than usual.
Make Certain Your Vehicle Is Properly Maintained
Often, it’s the simple things that lead to accidents. You may have a brake light or turn signal that’s malfunctioning or burned out. Don’t unnecessarily put yourself and your family at risk.
Obey All Traffic Signs and Signals
Traffic laws are in place for one primary reason—to protect the safety of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and others on the roads. Stay within the recommended speed limits, come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, and always signal any turn.
Be Willing to Carpool
The more people who ride together, the fewer vehicles on the roads. The fewer vehicles on the roads, the lower the risk of an accident.
Contact the Aggressive Car Accident Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen
At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we have a comprehensive knowledge of the laws and procedures related to personal injury claims. For more than 40 years, we’ve provided effective counsel to individuals across Texas who suffer any type of loss because of another person’s negligence, including people injured in car, truck, or motorcycle accidents. In our years in practice, we’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in judgments and settlements for motor vehicle accident victims. We are proven trial attorneys who will be a strong voice for you in all proceedings. Contact us by e-mail or call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
