What Are Some of the Most Dangerous Driving Habits?
The fact that driver error is responsible for most motor vehicle collisions is both scary and reassuring. It is scary because it means even when you are driving a perfectly maintained vehicle in clear weather, there is still a risk of getting into an accident; however, it is reassuring because it means conscientious drivers can take steps to avoid devastating crashes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driver error is responsible for more than 90 percent of wrecks. At the end of the day, there are countless ways to make a mistake while behind the wheel, but some bad habits that can ultimately cause a collision are far more prevalent than others.
If you were hurt in an accident with a reckless or negligent motorist, turn to the Cooper Law Firm to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Depending on the circumstances of your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident lawyer in Longview.
Read on to learn about some of the most dangerous driving habits:
- Speeding through Yellow Lights
Accelerating upon approaching a yellow light is one mistake that virtually all drivers make on occasion. Intersections are incredibly dangerous, though, and the risk of getting into a wreck when crossing traffic is high. As a result, you should always follow the rules of the road when passing through an intersection, and that means preparing to stop at a yellow light.
- Ignoring Blind Spots
Every vehicle has blind spots, and motorists need to account for them when driving in traffic. Glancing over your shoulder before changing lanes may not seem necessary after checking the mirrors, but doing so is essential in order to avoid a potential collision.
- Merging Incorrectly
Some motorists think they’re being polite by letting multiple cars merge ahead of them when in reality they are holding up traffic. Then there are others who take an aggressive approach to merging and speed past everyone. Both approaches can be dangerous in certain scenarios.
- Failing to Use Turn Signals
One of the single most effective ways to avoid causing a crash is by driving in a predictable manner. This includes using your turn signals well in advance of maneuvering in traffic.
- Focusing on Anything but the Road
Even motorists who never text and drive can fall victim to other distractions, which can ultimately be just as dangerous. For example, Parents reminds readers that driving with children in the backseat can be incredibly distracting, and those who transport passengers often need to be especially vigilant about focusing on the road.
If you sustained injuries in a wreck with someone who made one of the above errors, contact the Cooper Law Firm today. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is proud to help accident victims throughout east Texas recover the compensation they deserve.
Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with an accident attorney in Longview. You can learn more about car crash claims by visiting usattorneys.com/car-accident/texas.