You would probably not be surprised to learn that many Miami car accidents occur because of a driver’s negligence. Common examples include those who speed, run red lights, use their cell phones, and engage in other unsafe acts behind the wheel. Though laws and public safety campaigns aim to deter this type of careless driving, you can expect that there will still be motorists who disregard the risks. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), 90 people die and another 6,337 people are injured in motor vehicle crashes every day.
Many of these collisions can be prevented through the exercise of reasonable care, but you cannot always control what other drivers do on the road. You need to anticipate that you are sharing the road with dangerous motorists who put you at risk, and the best way to protect yourself is by engaging in defensive driving. This strategy goes a long way to reducing the potential for Miami car accidents, so keep the following in mind.
- Focus on One Thing. When you are behind the wheel of a car, the only thing you should be concentrating on is safe operation of the vehicle. Eliminate all other distractions, so you are better able to detect and react to careless acts by other drivers. Even a split second matters in an auto crash.
- Be Prepared for Common Risks. Use your intuition when driving, and understand how certain maneuvers and positions in traffic create a higher risk of collisions. Give large trucks and commercial vehicles plenty of room, and steer clear of motorists who appear to be driving erratically. Keep a lookout for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycle riders whose lower profiles make them less visible.
- Never Try to Predict Another Driver’s Actions. Do not assume that other motorists will make a safe decision, follow traffic laws, or understand right-of-way rules. You cannot control their risky misconduct, but you have the power to react in a safe way.
- Employ the 3-4 Second Rule. Experts emphasize that you should estimate that it will take around 3-4 seconds for your vehicle to come to a complete stop when you hit the brakes. If you are going too fast, that time period shrinks down to fractions of a second. You would not be able to avoid colliding with the vehicle in front of you if the forward driver stops or slows unexpectedly.
- Use All Available Communication Tools. There are certain features of your vehicle that are intended for one purpose — communication. Your turn signals help others anticipate your upcoming move, and a honk of the horn lets another motorist know your position. You can even use a nod or hand signals to connect with others on the road.
Trust a Miami Auto Crash Lawyer to Advise You
Hopefully, you can utilize these and other defensive driving tips to reduce the risk of serious car accidents in South Florida. If you are injured in a collision, please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach. We can advise you on your rights after reviewing your circumstances.