Each year, thousands of traffic accidents are reported in Kentucky. In 2021, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reported 109,291 traffic accidents, which was an 8.4% increase compared to 2020.
Car accidents can cause severe injuries and financial losses. Therefore, avoiding a car accident in Lexington should be at the top of a driver’s priorities. Since many car accidents are caused by human error and negligence, there are steps drivers can take to avoid a car crash in Lexington, KY.
Five Tips To Avoid a Car Accident in Lexington, KY
Things that you can do to avoid a Lexington car accident include:
1. Avoid Distractions While Driving
Distracted driving has become one of the most common reasons for car crashes. Using a cell phone or other electronic device tops the list of distractions that cause accidents. However, any activity that takes your attention away from driving could be a potential deadline distraction.
Common distractions that cause accidents include:
- Looking for something in the car or trying to pick something up from the floor
- Taking care of children or pets
- Interacting with passengers
- Adjusting the vehicle’s controls
- Daydreaming
- Focusing on something outside of the vehicle
- Eating and drinking
- Putting on makeup
- Emailing, texting, or talking on a cell phone
A simple way to avoid car accidents is to put your cell phone down while driving. Avoid distractions while driving and pull over if you need to do something that would take your attention off the road.
2. Drive at a Safe Speed for Conditions
The speed limit is intended to create ideal driving conditions for motorists. Exceeding the speed limit in Lexington can increase the chance of a car accident. However, driving too fast for the conditions at the time also increases the risk of a car crash.
You should slow down during poor weather conditions, congested traffic, and other adverse driving conditions. Doing so can avoid causing a traffic accident.
3. Don’t Tailgate or Following Too Closely
Some drivers in Lexington, KY tailgate because they are aggravated with traffic and want the driver to speed up. However, following the car in front of you can decrease the chance you can stop before hitting the car. Leaving sufficient room between you and the vehicle in front of you can help you avoid being involved in a car accident.
Rear-end crashes can cause severe neck and back problems. In some cases, a rear-end accident can result in permanent impairments and wrongful deaths.
4. Perform Routine Vehicle Maintenance
A well-maintained vehicle can reduce the risk of a car accident in Lexington. The tires, brakes, steering system, and other vehicle parts and systems need routine maintenance.
When your tires or brakes need to be replaced, do so immediately. Brake failures and tire blowouts can contribute to the cause of a car accident.
5. Avoid Drowsy Driving
Drowsy and fatigued driving are common reasons for car accidents in Lexington, KY. Drivers often exceed the driving hours permitted between rest periods. A lack of sleep can increase the risk of a car accident.
However, other drivers can also be guilty of drowsy driving. People who work swing shifts, have sleep apnea, or take medication that causes drowsiness may cause a car crash because of drowsy driving.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Lexington, KY?
If you are involved in a car accident in Lexington, KY, call 911 to report the accident. The law requires that most car accidents be reported to the police.
However, it is best to report any car accident so that you can obtain an official accident report. An accident report verifies that you were involved in a car crash and prevents the other driver from changing their story later or denying the crash occurred.
Further, seeing a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident is best. Even if you feel fine, you could have hidden injuries that might not present symptoms for several days after the accident. Prompt medical attention can help link your injuries to the accident, which is necessary to receive compensation from the at-fault driver.
Document the accident scene by making a video and taking photographs if possible. Also, ask for contact information if anyone witnesses the accident or stops to help.
Everyone can benefit from sound legal advice. Therefore, contacting a Lexington car accident lawyer for a free consultation is a wise step. An attorney reviews your case, explains your legal options, and discusses how much your case might be worth.
