According to statistics, 18,995 people were killed and 1,203,927 were injured in traffic accidents in 2015 across the United States. In 2014, distracted driving caused 3,179 deaths and 431,000 injuries. The National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that about 10% of all drivers aged 15 to 19 years were involved in fatal crashes are reported to have been distracted at the time of the crash. Drivers in their 20s make up 23% of drivers in all fatal crashes, and are 27% of distracted drivers and 38% of all distracted drivers who were using mobile phones in fatal crashes.
Tips to Drive Safely on Highways
Every new driver gets excited by the prospect of getting behind the wheel and enjoying a cruise around the neighborhood. However, it is important to remember that the increased traffic and speed of a major highway can be a whole new challenge. With the proper know how and practicing consistently, it can be fun and safe to drive on an expressway. Here are some important tips to minimize the risks that come with highway driving.
- Keep your distance – As you learn all there is to know about driving, there is one thing you will find that all drivers agree on: traffic can be a huge challenge. Major highways are well-known for stop-and-go traffic. It is important for drivers to adapt to watch out for sudden starts and stops to avoid crashing into the vehicle that is in front of them. In many cases, the fault of the accident is with the driver behind. To avoid unnecessary injury, damages, and expenses, you need to keep lengths of two to three cars between you and the car in front. This way, you get plenty of reaction time in case the driver in front stops suddenly, even in inclement weather.
- Maintain a steady speed – As a rule, it is best to keep up with traffic flow, making sure to move to the leftmost lane only to pass another vehicle. You are likely to encounter stop-and-go traffic on the highway and see vehicles darting in and out of lanes. If the flow of traffic is steady and you are within the posted speed limit, try to keep your RPM at the same level to ensure that you do not unwittingly develop a lead foot, or you could set your cruise control as well.
- Put down your mobile phone – Distracted driving makes up more than 1,100 collisions and 9 fatalities every day in the US. Using cellphones impairs a driver’s ability to focus as well as normal reaction time. This is why there are costly citations issued in many major cities and towns for motorists who are caught using mobile phones while they are behind the wheel. You should silence your cellphone before you even get into your car to prevent a text, call, or email from taking your eyes off the road.
A Steady and Smart Law Firm
If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you should immediately seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. Give us a call. We know how to win cases. We have been doing this for years. Winning cases is what we do. We have won millions of dollars for past clients, you too can be on this glorious list. The first consultation is free. You have nothing to lose. We know what a winning case looks like. We know what legal windows to open and when to open them. We have the legal acuity you need to come out of this a winner. It is time to make you financially whole again. Call RMFW Law today!
