How to avoid traffic collisions

Getting into an accident is stressful, dangerous, and sometimes, deadly. However, there are things you can do to avoid them, and keep yourself safe. It’s been stated that more than 90% of automobile collisions can usually be avoided. It’s a sobering thought. So how do you prevent accidents? Common sense and some helpful hints will help you steer clear of unwanted collisions, and help you to feel safer while driving. And remember, the fewer accidents you are involved in, the lower your auto insurance quotes will be.

Here are a few main points to keep in mind while on the road:

1. Pay Attention: Make sure that you are fully aware of your surroundings at all times, and keep an eye out for other motorists, pedestrians, and even weather and road conditions. Being alert and in tune with your surroundings is imperative when it comes to safe driving.

2. Avoid Dangerous Roads: While you should always be alert, this is especially true when driving in harsh winter weather conditions. Even if you are careful, your car can veer out of control due to rainy or icy roads.

3. Obey the Speed Limit: If you drive too fast, you slow your reaction time and are thereby more likely to get into a crash. Speed-related crashes make up $40.4 billion a year in economic costs.

4. Keep a Safe Distance: By creating a buffer zone between you and the driver in front of you, you can greatly reduce the chance of a collision. Tailgating is a major cause in rear-end accidents. You should always keep three seconds worth of distance between you and the car in front of you. When driving in more extreme conditions, you should keep even further back.

5. Proper Lane Changing: It’s one of the first things young drivers are taught, and yet many people fail to check all their mirrors and signal before changing lanes.

6. Use Caution at Intersections: 23% of fatal accidents are intersection-related, according to the Federal Highway Administration. In addition, more than half of fatal and injury collisions take place in intersections. Always be careful when entering an intersection, and even if you have the right of way, look both ways before turning.

7. Get Regular Checkups: Checkups are an invaluable way to avoid accidents. Whether your wiper fluid is low or your brakes and tires need maintenance, keeping up with car checkups is crucial.

By following these simple steps, you can reduce the chance of a dangerous car accident, and keep your car insurance quotes low.