Nebraska's Truck Crash Lawyer

The lost art of defensive driving

On Behalf of | Feb 27, 2017 | Car Accidents

Some days on the road make you feel like you are a target. Every vehicle seems to be aiming for you, pulling out in front of you or swerving into your lane. These are the days when your defensive driving skills are on full alert.

Driving defensively is the safest way to travel. While it may not always prevent you from being in an accident, anticipating those situations and avoiding them may reduce the chances of a collision.

They teach defensive skills in drivers’ education classes, but after a few years on the road, you may become complacent. With the number of driver distractions increasing, it may be even more important to refresh your defensive skills and recommit to safer driving habits.

Defending against distraction

It seems that one of the growing distractions to drivers is the car itself. Equipped with so many modern safety gadgets, navigation components and entertainment systems, it’s easy to let your eyes linger on the dashboard a little too long. Of course, by now you know the dangers of having your cellphone in your hand while you are driving.

Your side and rear-view mirrors are old-fashioned technology that still works. By constantly scanning and re-scanning your mirrors, you will be better able to make predictions about the way the situation on the highway will change.

Defending against aggression

Know the capabilities and limitations of your vehicle. There is nothing worse than making the move to pass an 18-wheeler on an incline only to find out the little engine in your vehicle is not equipped to get you there safely. On the other hand, if your car is newer, you can probably hit the speed limit in seconds flat, and the temptation may be to let her fly. Speeding is a form of aggressive driving that can easily turn deadly.

Other forms of aggressive driving include:

  • Tailgating
  • Punching the gas
  • Slamming the brakes
  • Driving too slowly

Posted speed limits in Nebraska indicate the maximum safe speed when conditions are perfect. If the weather is icy, rainy or foggy, you will certainly want to decrease your speed. Similarly, if traffic is congested, trying to maintain the posted speed limit may increase the chances of an accident. Traveling with the average flow of traffic is recommended.

When defensive skills are not enough

It is possible that, after all your caution, you will end up in an accident through no fault of your own. Not everyone drives defensively, and certainly not many drivers seem to respect others on the road. This may leave you with painful injuries and expensive medical treatment.

In such a case, you have the right to seek legal counsel. A lawyer can help you determine if your situation is suitable for a personal injury claim against the driver responsible for your injuries. After all your good efforts at defensive driving, you can allow someone else to defend you and your rights.

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