You’ve seen these drivers out on the roads; they’re flipping the bird to everyone, yelling at the top of their lungs, and honking their horn to the beat of “Jingle Bells.” Some might call it road rage, others may use a more inappropriate term, but, regardless, these drivers are dangerous. Their reckless behaviour on the roads leads to serious car accidents that can result in life-threatening injuries. These are a few tips to prevent aggressive driving so that an accident does not happen as a result of negligent driving decisions.
Avoid Certain Driving Behaviours
If there is a heavy flow of traffic, driving can be extremely frustrating, but it is important to stay cool in these situations. These are a few behaviours that may trigger aggressive drivers and lead to poor driving decisions:
- Making offensive or obscene gestures to another driver;
- Making eye contact with an irritated driver;
- Tailgating another vehicle;
- Using your horn more than you have to; and
- Overusing your headlights.
These behaviours only escalate aggressive encounters on the roads, and by avoiding these behaviours you will save yourself from being involved in a serious car accident. Automobile accident lawyers have seen it time and time again, so stay out of sticky situations and keep your temper even-keeled on the roads.
Common Courtesies
There are certain behaviours that we follow, as drivers, to make sure that traffic is running smoothly and so we are able to share the roads. It is best practice to follow these behaviours, as they can prevent mistakes and accidents from occurring. If you do not follow these rules, you will aggravate other drivers around you. Here are a few of the behaviours to keep in mind:
- Avoid blocking the passing lane when you are driving on a multiple lane highway;
- Make sure that you always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the car in-front of you;
- Make sure to use your signal before making a lane change, and turn your signal off when you have completed the change;
- Make sure that you are paying attention to the roads and are turning when you are supposed to;
- Don’t take up multiple spaces when parking your vehicle;
- Keep your headlights on low beam, unless the conditions require your high beams;
- Do not block the roads;
- Make sure that you are always checking in the rearview mirror before backing out of a parking space; and
- Keep your vehicle in good condition, avoiding any breakdowns on the road.
These are key tips to follow, as you should be courteous of other drivers on the roads. Accidents happen when drivers fail to follow these tips, while reckless behaviour is instigated. Automobile accident lawyers will answer any of your questions if you have been involved in a car accident, as accidents are not always avoidable on the roads.
Hiring a Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in an accident and require an automobile accident lawyer to handle your case, you can book a free consultation with a lawyer at Sokoloff today. We will answer your questions, without hesitation, and ensure that you receive compensation for the injuries and damages you sustained in the crash.
Sources:
http://www.safeny.ny.gov/aggr-ndx.htm