Car accidents are extremely common, occurring every day, and many require the help of a Chicago car accident lawyer. As many as 5,000 people may die in car accidents per year in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It’s important to be aware of what to do after a car accident and whom to contact if you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, especially if you aren’t sure whether or not to contact an attorney. Here are five pieces of advice from an experienced lawyer from Disparti Law Group that you should take into consideration following an auto accident.
1) Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Safety can sometimes feel like a drag, but it’s worth it when you’re a safe driver. In order to be as safe as possible while on the road, drivers should stay alert and aware of their surroundings and other vehicles around them. When people talk about a safety dance, they’re referring to the act of doing something that looks off-kilter or goofy in order to draw attention. For example, opening up one’s car door right before parking so that an oncoming driver can see you are about to get out of your vehicle. That way, drivers will have time to slow down or take another route instead of plowing into your parked car from behind.
2) Don’t Drive Distracted
The laws throughout the country are now tougher than ever. You’ll have more fines to pay and stiffer penalties if you get caught talking on your cell phone or texting while driving. In some states, these offenses are even grounds for a permanent license suspension so it’s just not worth the risk. Follow your GPS for directions to places you’re unfamiliar with – If a map app is more convenient than having someone else give you directions, then take the time to pull over before you start typing in an address so that you can make sure that you’re not only following their instructions correctly but obeying all traffic laws as well. Planning ahead is one of the best ways to avoid an accident when behind the wheel.
3) Get Enough Sleep Before Driving
Stay safe by getting enough sleep before driving. If you’re drowsy, pull over for a nap or to rest for 15 minutes. This is especially important when you have children who are in the car with you because they don’t know how dangerous it is to doze off while driving. This can also keep them awake during their drive time. Don’t Drink And Drive: Drinking and driving has been linked to at least 40% of all car accidents. So stay sober and avoid this mistake that could ruin your life. Also, you should always try and maintain at least three seconds between yourself and the vehicle in front of you at all times, but five seconds is even better! If you are even slightly drowsy this distance is very important as your reaction time is slower.
4) Invest in Good Safety Gear
When it comes to car accidents, safety gear is an absolute must. For example, everyone should always have a seatbelt in their vehicle; people who ride motorcycles need to wear helmets and proper jackets; bicyclists and pedestrians should wear bicycle helmets. If the accident was the result of another person’s negligence, you may be able to recover damages for your medical bills, pain and suffering and other losses if you are able to show that the injury could have been prevented had the driver exercised reasonable care.
5) Take It Easy while Learning to Drive
Don’t rush to drive just because you can. Take your time, do a little bit of research and make sure you’re comfortable before getting on the road. Remember: it’s safer to take longer to learn how to drive than it is to speed through the process and get into an accident.
If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else, don’t be intimidated by the process of filing for a lawsuit. Just be clear about what happened and write out all the information surrounding your injury. Contact a lawyer today if you have been in an accident.
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