Nothing ruins a good day more than being involved in a car accident. At a minimum, an accident can cause vehicle damage, cost you money, and lead to the hassle of following up with insurance companies and vehicle repairmen. At worst, traffic accidents can cause life-threatening injuries and death. Follow these 7 tips to reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.

1. Avoid Distractions

   Operating a motor vehicle requires drivers to pay attention to what’s going on in their vehicles and in the surrounding environment. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted drivers caused 16% of all motor vehicle crashes in 2012. Drivers should limit distractions from the radio and passengers, and avoid distractions from cell phones and handheld devices altogether. Ohio drivers are prohibited from using a cellphone to read or send text messages. Consult a Columbus, Ohio car accident attorney to learn more about prohibited devices.

2. Drive the Speed Limit

   Driving faster than the stated speed, or what is safe for existing driving conditions, increases your chances of being involved in a car accident. Speed-related factors cause as many as 30% of US traffic accidents. Taking it slow and easy is the best way to avoid being involved in a speed-related car accident.

3. Avoid Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

   Drugs and alcohol significantly impair your judgment and ability to react to rapidly changing conditions. In Columbus, Ohio, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for driving after drinking is .08%. Even with a .08 BAC level, muscle coordination is poor and the ability to process information like traffic signals and objects entering your field of vision is significantly reduced.

4. Allow a Safe Distance Between Your Vehicle and the Vehicle In Front of You

   You should allow at least the length of one car between you and the vehicle in front of you to avoid tailgating. Depending on driving conditions, you may need to increase your following distance to allow ample time to react and use your brakes if driving conditions change suddenly.

5. Remain Aware of Blind Spots

   All vehicles have areas out of your sight that are not picked up by even the best mirrors. It’s important to be aware of where these blind spots are located on your vehicle, and to exercise caution when changing lanes or performing other maneuvers to ensure a vehicle isn’t “hiding” in your blind spot.

6. Limit Distractions from Children

   Any children in the vehicle should be properly restrained in an appropriate child safety seat. Provide children with toys or activities to keep them occupied during trips. Keep the radio volume to a minimum or allow children to use headphones to reduce driver distractions.

7. Anticipate Unexpected Changes

   Drivers need to constantly scan the environment for signs of changing traffic patterns or hazards that may impact their vehicle. Rather than being solely focused on the taillights in front of you, frequently survey your field of vision and anticipate unexpected changes.

If you have been involved in a traffic accident, the seasoned Columbus, OH car accident attorneys at Jones Law Group are here to help you. We will defend your rights and recover the benefits you deserve. Call (614) 545-9998 or fill out our online contact form to set up a free consultation and learn how our Columbus personal injury attorneys can assist you.