Appleton auto accident attorneysWhen combined, drunk driving and distracted driving accidents account for approximately half of all fatal traffic accidents. The latest analysis indicates that this means approximately 20, 000 deaths are caused by these deadly driving practices each and every year. And that is only the accidents in which a victim was wrongfully killed. Thousands more suffer from injuries that range from minor to severe. Defensive driving – a practice in which you attempt to predict and prepare for worst case scenarios – could reduce your risk of being just one of many victims.

Understanding the Concept Behind Distracted Driving

No one can really, truly predict what will happen up ahead or when they turn the corner. However, most drivers have been behind the wheel long enough to know when they should be most cautious. It is during these times that defensive driving can become a tremendous asset. If, for example, you are getting ready to pass through a light that has just turned green, you may wait just a moment longer to ensure no one is going to run the light, just as it is turning red. The overall benefit is that, in many cases, it can save your life. But, before it can do that, you must know how to use this driving technique effectively. 

Protecting Yourself with Defensive Driving

First and foremost, defensive driving requires that you stay attentive and aware of your surroundings. This means that you should not succumb to the temptations of distracted drivers, but it also means watching the drivers around, behind, and in front of you. Consider their movements and try to anticipate them. If, for example, there is a slow-moving vehicle up ahead and the driver directly in front of you is moving quickly and not making any attempt to slow down, it is almost a sure bet that they will have to slam on their brakes to avoid a collision. You can prepare for this by slowing down, long before they put you at risk.

In addition, it is extremely beneficial to have an escape route for any given situation. This requires you to be aware of the roadway. If, for example, another vehicle suddenly cuts you off, can you safely move over to the next lane? Can you utilize the shoulder of the road safely? Make sure that any alternative route keeps you in plain sight for other drivers, otherwise you are simply putting yourself back in harm’s way.

When Accidents Happen, Know Where to Turn

Even when using the best defensive driving skills, accidents with negligent drivers can happen. If they do, it is important to know where to turn for help. Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. offers skilled and aggressive legal representation for victim of distracted and drunk driving to help them receive the fair compensation they deserve. To learn more, contact our Appleton, Wisconsin personal injury attorneys for a free initial consultation. Call us at 920-739-7366 today.

Sources:

http://www.nbcneb.com/content/news/Even-on-Four-Lanes-Driving-Defensively-Saves-Lives-382430991.html

https://www.aaafoundation.org/distracted-driving?gclid=CjwKEAjw7e66BRDhnrizmcGc8VcSJABR6gaRqt4ZqYFDwuAp3GamBH8yER12n2VEczUu6x9xobFNmxoCW7Lw_wcB

http://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/impaired_driving/impaired-drv_factsheet.html

 

http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/driving-safety.html#