Mississippi Accident Attorney Discusses 10 Tips to Avoid Car Accidents

Nearly six million car accidents occur each year nationwide.  Mississippi is ranked among the most dangerous states for drivers, with accident rates and automobile crash fatalities exceeding the national average.  Car accidents are not always preventable, but there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of being in an automobile accident in Mississippi.

The following is a list of ten tips to avoid car accidents in Mississippi.  It is our hope that these safe driving tips can help to spare you from the heartache of being involved in a car accident.

  • Beware of blind spots—properly adjust your side and rearview mirrors, but do not rely solely on them.  Be aware of your blind spots and actually turn to look into the lane beside you to be sure nothing is present that was undetected by your mirrors.  Additionally, consider the blind spots of other drivers, particularly trucks.  With over seven interstate highways, Mississippi is home to much commercial trucking activity. Truckers have large blind spots and drivers should always anticipate such.
  • Scan the area ahead constantly—look further than just to the vehicle in front of you.  Scan ahead to the traffic in front of that car as well.  This increases your chance of seeing a problem while you still have time to react, and decreases the risk that you rear-end the vehicle in front of you should they come to a sudden stop.
  • Avoid inclement weather—rainy, icy, or snowy conditions make for dangerous driving.  When the roads are slick or visibility low, the number of accidents increases drastically.  If possible, avoid the roadways when inclement weather exists.
  • Safely store your technology—distracted driving dramatically increases your chance of being in an accident.  Cell phones and other electronic devices take your focus away from the roadway and away from the important task at hand—navigating safely to your destination.  It is best to safely store your electronics in a place where you will not be tempted to use them until you have safely arrived at your destination.
  • Avoid driving tired—drowsiness makes for dangerous driving.  Some studies show tired driving is actually as dangerous as drunk driving.  Only hit the road when you are alert and well rested.
  • Make sure your vehicle is road ready—keep up with vehicle maintenance.  Make sure brakes and tires are ready for the road, and all fluid levels appropriately filled.
  • Be a defensive driver—keep an eye out for what others are doing.  Anticipate other drivers may drive negligently.  Be wary and vigilant so that you have time to react to any road event.
  • Keep two hands on the wheel—drive with your hands in the 9 and 3 o’clock position.  Though many get lazy with this proper wheel hold, it is important to observe as it provides maximum steering control and will allow for quick maneuvering.
  • Avoid driving at night—driving at night comes with certain hazards.  Along with your own increased fatigue, you need to be aware of the higher than normal probability of drunk or tired drivers.  When you need to drive at night, do so defensively.
  • Avoid the fast lane—the center or right lane allows for more escape routes than the fast lane, should a problem arise that requires you to change lanes or pull onto the shoulder.  Most fatal accidents occur in the left hand lane on multilane roadways.

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, The Giddens Law Firm will provide you with the excellence of legal services you need to obtain the results you desire.  With decades of experience representing Mississippi car accident victims, we have the resources, skill, and knowledge to fight for your maximum recovery.  Call our qualified team of qualified Mississippi Personal Injury Attorneys today at (601) 355-2022 to schedule a free consultation.