Important Steps to Remember for Safe and Responsible Driving

The last week, Maryland drivers have been battling snow and ice on the roads. As the mounds of snow begin to melt and everyone gets back into their normal driving routines, it is important to remember to drive responsibly.

Maintain your vehicle: All vehicles require regular service to keep the vehicle on the road longer and to prevent any safety concerns. Important parts such as tires, brakes, lights, wipers, and fluid levels are crucial for driving safely on the road. Without proper maintenance, your chances of getting into an accident are much higher.

Stay focused and keep distractions to a minimum: it is extremely important to pay attention to the road in front of you as well as the other vehicles surrounding you. Distractions such as cell phones, passengers in the car, and music can lead to an accident. Do not text or talk on the phone while driving.

Avoid driving recklessly: The most common reckless driving behavior and a leading cause of fatal accidents is speeding. Speed limits are in place for one reason: safety. When drivers go well above the speed limit, they have very little control over their vehicle. Another form of reckless driving is tailgating. We have all been stuck behind one of those cars that is driving under the speed limit and you cannot get around them. Many of us think the best thing to do is drive very close to their bumper because we think it will make them drive faster. That simply is not safe at all because if that car stops suddenly, it is impossible for you to stop without hitting them. It is always important to maintain a safe distance between your car and the car in front of you, especially in wet weather.

Always wear your seatbelt: The one safety device in a car that saves the most lives is the seatbelt. Countless accident victims were either seriously injured or killed because they were not wearing their seatbelt. These devices were created in order to protect people in the event of an accident. If you do not use your seatbelt, there is nothing stopping you from going through the windshield.

If you or a family member have been injured or killed in a Maryland car accident due to the negligence of another person and would like to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for free, contact our office at (410) 995-1515 to schedule an appointment at one of our office locations in Rockville or throughout Maryland or visit us online.