Here’s a scary statistic: according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on average, two in three people will be involved in a drunk driving crash in their lifetime. Even worse, in 2015, 9,967 people were killed and approximately 290,000 were injured in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. It’s a fact, drunk driving is a big problem in the US; and each crash, each death, and each injury affects not only the person in the crash, but family, friends, and more.
But not drinking and carefully driving doesn’t mean you are safe from a drunk driving collision. For that reason, today we want to share with you safety tips to help you prevent this type of accidents. Taking these guidelines into consideration will help you reduce your chances of being involved in a crash with reckless and senseless drunk drivers. If you were the victim of a drunk driving accident, contact our NYC accident attorneys to discuss if you may be able to sue the drunk driver and review all of your legal options.
Don’t rush and keep an eye out
Most accidents involving drunk driving occur during nighttime. Be aware of reckless drivers and make your safety your priority. Don’t rush; leave yourself extra time to arrive safely to your destination.
Always secure seat belts
Even if your destination is around the corner, make sure that you and your passengers have properly secured their seat belts.
Avoid the fast lane
Using the center or right lane on multi-lane roads means more escape routes in case you encounter a “suspicious” driver. Most highway accidents occur in the left lane so try to avoid these, especially during nighttime.
Drive with your hands in the 9 and 3 o’clock position
Avoid “lazy driving”. This is the recommended position to help you keep maximum vehicle control, especially for when you are forced into rapidly maneuvering to avoid a potential car collision. Do not make calls or text while driving.
Avoid long driving journeys during nighttime
If possible, try to plan your driving trips during daytime. Even though you may avoid traffic, nighttime has its own hazards. You’ll be more fatigued and have a decreased field of vision that will prevent you from identifying reckless drivers who are countless at this time of the day. Drive with extra care, especially after midnight when young people are leaving bars and parties.
If you see something, say something
If you encounter a driver driving brusquely, stay as far away from the vehicle as possible and do not try to pass the vehicle or signal the driver to pull over; this could result in a collision. If possible, try to get the license plate number, the vehicle’s model and color. Pull over, call 911 and make them aware of the situation.
Although none of these guidelines are guaranteed ways to prevent a car accident, you can only control what you do behind your wheels and not what other drivers do. If you or someone you love has been caught up in a car accident involving a drunk driver, contact us today. We are here to help you and your loved ones fight for your rights.