Driving through Somerset is just as dangerous as driving through any other city in Kentucky. This is because there are thousands of people on the road all operating large pieces of machinery that can easily cause severe injuries and death if handled improperly. This means that each driver has a responsibility to follow traffic laws and practice safe driving habits, not only for their own protection but for the protection of other people on the road.
Simply by practicing safe driving techniques, you can drastically reduce your chances of becoming involved in a car accident. Here are a few ways you can lessen your risk of a car wreck.
Limit distractions
When most people think of distracted drivers, they think of people texting and driving or talking on the phone and driving. In reality, distractions can come in all different forms. For example, your kids fighting in the back seat could be enough of a distraction to cause you to take your eyes off the road for a few seconds which is more than enough time for an accident to happen.
Eating, drinking and even changing the thermostat in the car are also distractions that can lead to a collision. By limiting the distractions in your own vehicle, you will be able to keep a better lookout for other drivers that may not be taking the same precautions.
Stick to the speed limit
Posted speed limits exist for your safety and the safety of other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists on the road. For instance, speed limits in neighborhoods tend to be relatively low because adults and children can often be found close to and even in the street.
Other roads have lower speed limits due to the conditions of the roads themselves, such as those with sharp curves. When traveling at high speeds, the driver has a higher chance of losing control of the vehicle. In addition, higher speeds need much more braking distance to bring the car to a safe stop.
Keep up with maintenance
Not only should you choose the right vehicle for your needs, you should also take steps to keep it operating properly. For example, keeping your tires inflated at the proper level will help you avoid a blowout in the middle of the highway. Also, make sure your advanced safety system is working correctly so that you can rely on it with confidence.
While the above tips can reduce the risk of a car accident, you cannot control how other people drive. Sometimes, no matter how safe your own driving is, it is impossible to avoid a car wreck with a negligent driver. If this happens, you might be able to file a claim for your injuries and the damages to your vehicle.
