7 Things You Can Do to Prevent a St. Louis Car Accident

While you can’t control how other people drive, you can take steps to protect yourself and others on the road.

Getting the help of a St. Louis car accident attorney can help you get adequate compensation if you’re involved in a serious car accident. However, it’s even better to avoid accidents altogether and avoid the need for insurance claims and litigation.

Up to 90% of accidents are caused by human error. And while you can’t control how other people drive, you can take steps to protect yourself on the road. Let’s discuss a few top strategies you can use to avoid St. Louis car accidents and drive safely.

1. Don’t Exceed The Speed Limit

Speeding isn’t just illegal. It reduces the time that you have to react to unexpected movements ahead. At 70 mph, your car will travel about 77 feet before you can react to a dangerous situation. At 55 mph, it will only travel around 61 feet. 

2. Practice Defensive Driving

Keep your eyes on the road in front of you at all times, be aware of the actions of other drivers, choose gaps in traffic wisely, and take other steps to drive defensively. 

3. Be Aware of Every Car Around You

In addition to looking ahead, make sure to check your blind spot regularly, and use your rear mirrors and side mirrors to check on the position of cars that are near you. Being alert to the behaviors of other drivers will help you stay safe.

4. Put Down the Phone and Avoid All Other Distractions

Distracted driving claimed more than 2,800 lives in 2018 alone. Never text or look at your phone while driving, and avoid other distractions like eating, fiddling with the radio, and putting on makeup. 

5. Never Drive While Impaired 

Driving while impaired is not only illegal, but it’s one of the highest contributors to your risk of crashing. 28% of all traffic-related deaths include at least one impaired driver.

6. Avoid “Drowsy Driving”

Don’t drive when you’re sleep-deprived. More than 100,000 crashes involve drowsy driving, which can result in delayed reaction times, poor decision-making, or even falling asleep at the wheel.

7. Always Be Cautious In Inclement Weather

About 22% of accidents are partly due to weather-related factors like rain, fog, snow, sleet, ice, and others. Be alert, be extra cautious, and make sure your vehicle is properly maintained for inclement weather in St. Louis. 

Involved in a St. Louis Car Accident?

We hope you’ve found these tips helpful. However, we know that even the safest and most cautious drivers may be involved in an accident due to no fault of their own. In this case, speaking with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer to ensure that your legal right to compensation is protected.