In Florida, it only takes a split second for an auto accident to cause death or serious injury. A car accident can happen anywhere at any time for a thousand different reasons. Are you prepared?
The best way to avoid an auto accident, other than staying off the road, is to be a defensive driver. A defensive driver is one who keeps their attention on the road and uses safe driving strategies to avoid getting involved in an auto accident. We all need to be defensive drivers when we’re behind the wheel.
Why is Defensive Driving So Important in Florida?
- According to the latest data, there were just over 400,000 automobile accidents in Florida in 2018; that’s over a thousand a day.
- The same year, 255,353 people were injured in Florida car accidents; 3,135 died as a result of a motor vehicle accident
- Motor vehicle accidents are the third leading cause of death among all ages in Florida; they’re the leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 and 24 and the second leading cause of death among those between the ages of 25 and 64.
5 Important Defensive Driving Tips
With so many cars on the road, avoiding an accident in Lutz isn’t just about being lucky, it’s also about being a safe driver. Here are five defensive driving tips that reduce your chances of becoming involved in a Lutz car accident:
1. Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Florida and across the U.S. It’s important to avoid all distractions while you’re behind the wheel. Taking your attention off the road, even for a second, can have dire consequences. Some kinds of distracted driving, such as texting while driving, are against the law in Florida.
2. Be Aware of Possible Hazards
There are a number of different hazards to be on the lookout for. Adverse weather conditions, road debris is and construction crews can create potentially hazardous situations. And of course, any of the vehicles you’re sharing the road with at the time.
In most cases, you can avoid getting stuck in dangerous weather by consulting the latest weather forecasts. Have a different route planned to avoid the hazards and delays often caused by road work. Give other vehicles on the road proper clearance and be ready to slow down or maneuver out of the way at the first sign of a hazardous road condition.
3. Follow the Traffic Laws
One of the main tips for defensive driving is obeying all the traffic laws and posted signs. It’s all too easy to get in a hurry when we’re behind the wheel causing us to disregard the traffic laws that are designed to keep us safe. Slow down, stick to the speed limit, come to a complete stop at a stop sign, and don’t make a right turn at a red light without checking to make sure the way is clear.
There’s no such thing as a minor traffic violation. Even traveling a few miles over the posted speed limit can create a dangerous situation for you and everyone else on the road.
4. Always Assume the Other Driver Doesn’t See You
Distracted driving is a real danger. Always assume the other driver doesn’t see you. Maintain a proper distance between your vehicle and the others, especially if the other vehicle happens to be a big truck. Communicate your intentions to other drivers using the proper signals. Always be prepared to stop, slow down, or maneuver in the event another driver doesn’t see you.
5. Keep a Cool Head
Don’t let emotions cause you to make a potentially fatal mistake. Always keep a cool head when you’re behind the wheel. Remember to be a courteous driver at all times. Try and stay clear of aggressive drivers. Don’t be in a hurry, give yourself the time you need to safely get to where you need to be.
If You Couldn’t Avoid a Car Accident, Call Lutz Auto Accident Attorney Tania Rivas
Even the safest, most careful drivers can find themselves involved in an accident due to the careless actions of another driver. If you’ve been injured in a Lutz, FL car accident that was caused by the negligence of the other driver, Florida state law gives you the right to seek compensation for the damages caused by your injuries. These damages can include present and ongoing medical expenses, lost wages and employment, as well as pain, suffering, and mental anguish.
Rivas Law Group is here to help you get the total compensation you deserve for the pain and losses caused by your injuries. Attorney Tania Rivas has represented numerous clients injured in auto accidents in Lutz, Lakeland, Winter Haven, and other Central Florida communities. Her experience, skill, and dedication have resulted in millions of dollars in settlements for her clients.
Take steps to protect your rights after a Lutz, FL car accident. Contact Rivas Law Group through our website or call us at (877) 299-5539 to schedule a free, initial consultation with leading Lutz auto accident attorney Tania Rivas.
