So you just got your first car! Congratulations to you! Getting one’s first car is a special moment, very much like getting a first job, a first house, and any other achievement.
You are more likely to go through a few cars during your lifetime, but your true learning will start when you take your car out on the road.
Now – here is the thing – driving on highways can be quite risky. When you are driving, you risk being involved in an accident. Most car accidents result from speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, trailing, not stopping at red lights, and not paying attention to traffic signs.
Let us look at some common types of accidents and how you can avoid them.
Keep reading!
Single-Car Accident
A single-car accident refers to a vehicle’s collision with road barriers, trees, animals, etc. The term also refers to accidents that happen when the car drives off the road. However, there are certain ways you can prevent single-car accidents:
Assess the weather – you will also want to assess the weather before driving so you can adjust your driving speed and manner accordingly. Even if your car is the only one on the road, you will want to drive at a speed that is according to the weather.
Before the start of winter, you will want to learn winter driving skills to avoid hydroplaning. You will also want to drive at an appropriate speed to maintain control of your vehicle.
Always pay attention to the road in front of you – even if you are driving alone. Avoid calling and texting, as you never know when the road condition might change. Don’t forget that speeding is dangerous, and it can actually kill you.
So, even when you are alone on the road, you will want to avoid overspeeding.
Parked Car Accident
It is quite common for parked cars to get hit by another car. Sometimes, another car might lose control and crash into a parked car. Nonetheless, you can avoid parked car damage by going the extra mile and avoiding parking your car in a busy section of the parking lot.
You can also maximize the parking space by parking your car in the center. If you find your car too close to the parking line, you will want to readjust it, so it doesn’t get hit by other cars pulling in or out of the nearby parking spots.
Preferably, you should try parking your car in a garage or at a safe place when you aren’t using it.
Car Crash at an Intersection
Another very common type of car accident is a car crash at an intersection. Believe us when we tell you that car crashes occur more frequently than you can imagine at intersections.
You might be doing everything right – but – if another driver is distracted, they might miss the traffic signals or other vehicles before turning at an intersection.
To avoid a car accident at an intersection, you will want to practice defensive driving, the technique of which will allow you to keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road – especially at an intersection.
You will want to take a few seconds at an intersection after the light has turned green. Driver after you have assured yourself that no one is coming through the intersection. When you are approaching a yellow light at an intersection, you will want to be rather cautious instead of taking chances.
Car Crash from Rear-End Collisions
One of the most common accident causes is rear-end collisions. These are also the primary cause of auto insurance claims. You can often avoid rear-ending collisions – irrespective of whether your vehicle is hit by another vehicle or you hit another driver.
When it comes to avoiding rear-end collisions, you will want to keep a sufficient distance between your car and the car in front of you. This way, you can stop safely – even if you suddenly pull the brakes.
As a rule of thumb, you will want to stay at least three seconds behind the car that is driving in front of you. Make sure to keep the distance longer if your vehicle – for instance – if you are driving a truck. You will also want to keep a longer distance if the weather conditions are dangerous.
Another way to avoid a rear-end collision is by driving strategically and being mindful about not texting and calling when driving. If a driver is driving too closely, you will want to be mindful of the distance, so your vehicle doesn’t get rear-ended.
What Happens When You Get into an Accident?
Safe driving can go a long way to keep yourself and others safe. Now, suppose you got into an accident; instead of freaking out, you will want to stop your car, get out of the car and analyze the situation before you call the police and the ambulance – if you or someone else is injured.
After calling 911, you need a car accident lawyer who will help you prove who is liable for the accident and your injuries. An experienced attorney knows how to piece together the things that happened by collecting evidence.
An attorney understands that insurance companies look for their profit only – hence – they are skilled at negotiating settlements. Simply put, an insurance company will do whatever it takes to reduce their payable amount – even – if it is a valid claim.
Suppose you don’t contact a lawyer. You might get denied compensation that is rightfully yours. With an attorney by your side, your matter is well-taken care of. The attorney will handle your claim and prepare a statement for your benefit.
The lawyer will view all aspects of the case and represent your best interest, so you receive your compensation rights.
After calling the police and the attorney, you will want to obtain personal details from all involved drivers. If the accident is a hit-and-run, you will need to call the police right away. Make sure to take pictures of the accident scene and the damage.
Besides the attorney, you will want to contact your insurance company and report the accident to the DMV – Department of Motor Vehicles.