6 Tips On How To Avoid Accidents While Driving in NJ
No one ever wants to get into an accident while driving, but it can be a frightening experience when it does happen. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid accidents and get the percentage of ending up in one to a minimum. By following these six tips, you can make sure that you can stay safe on the road and reduce your chances of being in a car or truck crash on the streets of New Jersey.
Never Drive if You're too Tired or Sleepy
It is a known fact that sleep deprivation can have a serious impact on a person's reaction times and alertness. If you've been staying up late the night before, make sure that you don't get behind the wheel of your car because you could become completely drowsy and fall asleep at the wheel.
In comparison, many people make the mistake of thinking that they can stay awake by drinking coffee or energy drinks before driving to work. This is a dangerous practice because caffeine only offers a temporary boost in alertness, and it wears off very quickly. According to an accident lawyer in New Jersey, truck drivers are an especially critical group because of the nature of their job. Truck drivers are at risk of falling asleep because they often have to drive for very long hours throughout the day and night, and the percentage of them asking for legal help is very high.
Pay Attention to Road Conditions
Bad road conditions are often the cause of car accidents in New Jersey. For this reason, you should always be aware of what's going on around you while you're driving, especially if it is raining or snowing heavily. Ice and water can quickly accumulate when it is cold outside, so lower your speed when there are puddles, standing water, or ice on the road.
Don't Multitask While Driving
One of the most common causes of car crashes in NJ is a result of distracted drivers who use their cell phones while behind the wheel. Texting and talking on a phone while driving can be very dangerous, and drivers should try their best to avoid using their phones while they are on the road.
Put your devices on silent or vibrate, so you won't become tempted to check them. You should also avoid eating and drinking while driving because this can lead to accidents as well. There were many accidents caused by distracted drivers because they were either talking on the phone, sending messages, or trying to eat.
If you need to make or take a call or message, pull over to the side of the road before doing so. Children should be taught at an early age not to use any electronic devices while parents are driving.
Don’t Speed Up
Speed limits are in place for a reason, and there is no good excuse for overspeeding. If you clock in at 70 mph when the speed limit is 55, your chances of losing control of your car will significantly increase because you won't be able to handle the curves or turns coming up ahead. In addition to losing control of your car if you go too fast, another danger is hydroplaning as a result of driving too fast through puddles or standing water. For this reason, make sure you slow down even more if there is rain or snow on the roadway.
Obey All Traffic Laws
There are many traffic laws that drivers have to obey in New Jersey, including obeying traffic lights, stopping at signs, and never passing through a red light. If you're caught disobeying any of these laws, then you can face serious consequences. Traffic signs and laws are in place for a reason, and you should always follow them.
Stay Away From Reckless Drivers
If you see another driver acting reckless and driving erratically, make sure that you stay as far away from them as possible. Not only could the other driver cause an accident if they lose control of their car, but you can easily get caught up in it too because you were trying to avoid the other vehicle.
Don't be afraid to put distance between yourself and other drivers on the road if they are acting recklessly. You may be following all the rules and acting safely, but a reckless driver could still cause an accident because of how they turn, merge, or brake.
It is important to follow these six tips to avoid accidents while driving. By staying focused on the road, obeying all traffic laws, and paying attention to road conditions, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in an accident. If you see another driver acting reckless, stay away from them, and don't be afraid to put distance between yourself and other drivers on the road.