Atlanta traffic can be stressful, from driving on highways like Ga. 400, I-85 and I-285 to swerving around potholes on Lenox Road, Peachtree Street or Howell Mill. The experienced car accident attorneys at Pope & Howard, P.C. want to keep you safe on the roads, streets and highways of Atlanta. That’s why they’re sharing a few tips on how to avoid common traffic accidents in our busy city.
Whether you’re sitting in a traffic jam or speeding along the highway late at night, it’s important to remain alert. The best way to remain alert: avoid distractions inside your vehicle.
For example, today, phones are the biggest source of distractions in a car or truck, and texting while driving is illegal in most states – including Georgia.
Instead of keeping your phone where you can see it, try putting it in your glove compartment or purse to keep it out of sight. That way, if a text comes in while you’re driving, you won’t automatically look over at it to see who is trying to reach you.
Whether you’re on a multiple-lane highway or heading down a side road, always pull into flowing traffic slowly, remaining aware of blind spots and vehicles traveling faster than the flow of traffic. These vehicles can be right on top of you before you know it!
Green lights may signal “go” in your brain, but always think about those red-light runners. A good rule of thumb is to count to three and still look both ways before proceeding through a green light.
Always watch for children, random pedestrians, or animals, as they can come from out of nowhere. You should never just assume your path is clear.
Remain courteous to other drivers and leave space between vehicles. Every foot of space makes you and your children a little safer.
If you’re traveling on the highway at a speed of 55 miler per hour (or higher), try leaving 16 car lengths between you and the car or truck ahead of you (about 243 feet). That may seem like a lot of space, but it’s a good amount if you have to stop suddenly to ensure you avoid a catastrophic car accident.
Another way to avoid some of the most common traffic risks is to simply keep your vehicle regularly serviced. You wouldn’t believe how many accidents occur because of a blown tire, overheating car, outdated brakes, or even a low fuel tank.
Unfortunately, even when you’re on high alert and playing both offense and defense on the road, there are other drivers out there who simply don’t take the same precautions as you – endangering everyone in their path.
If you’re involved in an Atlanta car accident, especially if you’re seriously injured in any way, please know experienced car accident attorneys at Pope & Howard will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve for the value of your vehicle, medical bills, lost wages, and any pain and suffering.
If you’ve been in a serious car accident, the legal team at our Atlanta personal injury law firm is ready to provide you with a free consultation and thorough explanation of how to proceed. Contact us today by filling out our online form or calling 404-885-9999.