You want to avoid a traffic accident if possible. Even if you are not seriously injured in a car accident, it is a headache to arrange to have your vehicle repaired and deal with insurance adjusters. Instead of dealing with the aftermath of a traffic accident, it is better to try to avoid the accident if possible.
While some accidents are not avoidable, you can reduce your risk for a collision by following these tips:
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Do Not Drink and Drive
During 2015, 10,265 people died in alcohol-related accidents. New Orleans throws great parties and those parties often involve alcohol. We strongly support safe drinking for everyone who lives in New Orleans or visits our city. If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, don’t drink and drive. Use one of the several forms of public transportation available in New Orleans.
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Slow Down
Speeding is a common cause of traffic accidents. The NHTSA reports that 27 percent of the traffic fatalities during 2015 were the result of speeding-related accidents. Speeding decreases the time you have to stop or avoid a collision. Excessive speed can also increase your risk for severe injuries or deaths in traffic accidents. Obey all speed limits and slow down when driving in congested traffic and busy New Orleans streets.
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Avoid Distractions While Driving
During 2015, it is estimated that 3,477 traffic fatalities were caused by distracted drivers. Distracted driving causes thousands of accidents each year. One of the most common forms of distracted driving is the use of cell phones or other electronics. Do not text while driving and limit other distractions like eating, drinking, talking on a cell phone, grooming, and any other activity that takes your focus off the task of driving.
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Maintain Your Vehicle
Vehicle maintenance is an important step in avoiding car accidents. Keep your tires properly inflated and replace worn tires immediately. Have routine inspections of your brakes, windshield wipers, and other systems that can increase your risk of being involved in a car accident.
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Avoid Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving can lead to accidents. Examples of aggressive driving include tailgating, speeding, yelling at other drivers, cutting off other vehicles, running red lights, and weaving in and out of traffic.
Have You Been Injured in a New Orleans Accident?
Even with all the above precautions and more, you may not be able to avoid a car accident. If you are injured in a car accident, you need to protect your legal right to recover compensation for your injuries. Our team of legal professionals is here to help you as you recover from your injuries.
You might be entitled to recover compensation for your property damage, lost wages, medical expenses, emotional suffering, and physical pain. Even if you believe you are partially at fault for the collision, you might still be entitled to compensation. Let our attorneys review your claim and advise you of your options.
For a free legal consultation, contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889. We accept cases on a contingency fee basis.
