Driving on roads today can be hazardous and especially this year because of winter freezing and thawing creating monstrous potholes. That, partnered with constant and changing road construction areas, may bring drivers to their wit’s end. Driving today can easily cause aggression, and it may be intimidating to share the same road with such drivers. Aggressive driving causes many accidents each year, so here are a few reminders to keep in mind when sharing the road:
- Maintain Concentration on the Road. The average time a driver takes their eyes off the road to send or read a text is five seconds. Put simply, it is easy to get distracted while driving. Using phone options like searching maps or texting, applying make-up, playing with the radio, and talking or looking at other passengers are just a few examples of distractions that are common in an automobile. Make the road your top priority not only for your safety – but for everyone.
- Don’t tailgate. Everyone has done it at one time or another. Usually, it is brought on by a sense of urgency and you want the other car to either get out of the way or speed up. Consider what would happen if the car in front of you were to slam on their brakes – are you far enough behind them to stop without impact? If you rear-end the car in front of you, the fault will most likely be yours.
- Don’t Forget to Use Your Signal. Interstates have several lanes for vehicles and drivers are constantly changing lanes. It is important to let everyone around you know of your intents when driving by using your signals.
- Avoid Speeding. We know that speeding causes way too many accidents. Speed limits are there for a reason. Passing lanes are too. It is smart to leave the faster passing lanes open for more aggressive drivers. It’s just one less thing to worry about.
- Declutter Your Car. A clean and tidy vehicle is a safer vehicle. Not only can random trash impede your ability to drive, it can cause an accident if it blocks you from using your foot pedals to brake or accelerate.
- Be Polite. This is the hardest one to accomplish. When aggressive drivers want to get into your lane, it is almost always better to avoid conflict and let them in than to risk a fight on the freeway.
- Keep Your Distance from Drivers Who are Aggressive. The world and especially our neck of it, is full of aggressive drivers. If someone cuts you off or speeds by you, weaving in and out of highway traffic like a game of Frogger, it is important to remain calm. Distance yourself from the aggressive driver –it is the best thing you can do for your safety and the safety of any passengers.
These tips should help you stay safe on the road. We understand that automobile accidents cause a lot of stress and frustration. Burnett Legal Group is here to help. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, please contact our attorneys at Burnett Legal Group to schedule a consultation at (402) 810-8611.