There is no way to completely avoid getting into an automobile accident. Even if you’re the safest driver in the world, you can still get into an accident. It happens every day all over Oklahoma. What you CAN do is be prepared. Here are some good tips on how to stay safe on the roads in Oklahoma this Fall:
- Pull into traffic slowly. Stop, look, and listen. Check blind spots, especially your rear view mirrors. Look both ways for other cars on the road. Vehicles can appear almost out of nowhere quickly, so be careful pulling into any intersection.
- Look backwards when backing out. Fender benders in parking lots happen every day. Watch for other cars pulling out of parking spaces or driving past you looking for their own parking spot. Don’t depend on your mirrors, it’s best to look over your shoulder while steering.
- Watch for red light runners. Never assume that every car will stop at a red light. Look both ways and be sure no one is trying to speed through a yellow light.
- Keep at least one hand on the steering wheel. Keep in-car distractions like changing radio stations, looking at cell phones, or eating to a minimum (ideally avoid them all together!). If you’re doing something that takes your hands off the wheel, remember that it’ll probably force you to take your eyes off the road too.
- Take care of your car. Stalled cars cause a lot of accidents. Changing your oil regularly and keeping your tires inflated does a lot to help keep you (and others) safe on the road.
- Look ahead. Always keep your eyes on the road. If another car stops, slows down or swerves, and always be prepared.
- DO NOT tailgate. Leave multiple car lengths between you and the car in front of you. Tailgating is a major cause of auto accidents. Hurrying is NEVER worth getting into an accident over.
- DO NOT drive when you’re tired. This is very dangerous and causes many accidents. Driving tired puts you and other drivers in harm’s way. Additionally, make sure you are ALWAYS aware of which medications can cause drowsiness. It’s not a good idea (not to mention against the law!) to get behind the wheel while impaired.
- Be careful when changing lanes. Cutting in front of another car, changing lanes too fast, or not using your signals may cause an accident.
- ALWAYS wear a seat belt. Just do it. Always do it. Make sure everyone in your car does it. Wearing a seatbelt has saved countless lives over the years, so do yourself a favor and always buckle up!
You can’t prevent a car accident, but you can take these steps to help keep you and your passengers safe. If you or a loved one are ever involved in an Oklahoma auto accident, DO NOT hesitate to contact Attorney Ray Maples at (405) 705-5050.
