Motor vehicle accidents have serious consequences. In 2015, there were 35,092 traffic accident fatalities in the United States, which is a 7.2% increase from 2014. This is the largest yearly increase in traffic fatalities since 1965 (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Driver error is a leading cause of traffic accidents, which means many of these tragedies could have been avoided. Our personal injury attorneys Wichita, KS want motorists everywhere to remember these driving safety tips to help minimize the number of auto accidents.
Our Personal Injury Attorneys Wichita, KS Want to Help You Recover After an Auto Accident
Wear Your Seat Belt
Over 50% of those who died in traffic accidents in 2014 were not wearing seat belts (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly buckled up. This means all adults, men, women and children. The driver and all passengers (both in the front and back seats) need to wear their seat belts at all times.
Don’t Drink & Drive
Alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes claim the lives of 28 people every day in the United States (CDC). Nearly 10,000 people were killed in 2014 alone (NHSTA). Alcohol greatly impairs your judgement and ability to operate a vehicle even when you’re below the legal limit. If you are going to drink, be responsible and use a designated driver, taxi, or Uber.
Obey Traffic Laws
“Following basic traffic laws goes a long way in avoiding deadly accidents,” Rob Lee says, personal injury attorney Wichita, KS. “Drive the speed limit, stay 3 seconds behind the vehicle you’re following, don’t weave in and out of traffic, look before changing lanes, and use your turn signals. This is especially important during inclement weather.”
Distracted Driving
When you’re behind the wheel, your full attention needs to be directed towards safely driving your vehicle. Distracted driving caused 3,331 fatalities and 387,000 injuries last year (NHSTA). This means no eating, putting on makeup, reading, talking on the phone, talking excessively to passengers, fiddling with the radio, and absolutely NO TEXTING while driving. It’s also important to get enough sleep in order to avoid “driving drowsy.”
Drive Defensively
“Practice patience and courtesy. Don’t drive angry or aggressively,” says Chuck Hess, auto accident attorney. “Be aware of traffic conditions at all times, and don’t drive recklessly or take unnecessary risks. You put the life of yourself and others in danger. Try to anticipate what other drivers will do and make safety a top priority!”
If you have been the victim of an auto accident, please contact the office of Lee Gurney for a free consultation. Our personal injury attorneys Wichita, KS have the experience and training necessary to find you fair compensation. Our auto accident attorneys are honored to serve your case!