While Schell Law Office works with many clients who are victims of Pennsylvania motor vehicle accidents, we would prefer that these clients had never suffered the pain, stress, and sometimes heartache these crashes can cause.
So, to that end, we have compiled a list of common ways to avoid a Pennsylvania traffic accident. Certainly not all wrecks are avoidable. You never have control over the other drivers and what they do; however, there are some tips we can offer to stay as safe as possible on the road.
Tips to Avoid a Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Accident
Keep your vehicle in good running condition. Bad brakes, worn tires, and damaged windshields have caused many avoidable accidents. Also be sure your lights are all working correctly.
- Allow for bad road conditions. Best of all would be to avoid driving at all when the weather is bad. However, sometimes you must drive regardless of snow, ice, and rain. In these cases, slow down, use your pedals gently and keep a greater distance than usual between you and other vehicles.
- Wear a seat belt. The statistics are very clear on this point: seat belts save lives. It is estimated that 356 people over the age of five were saved in 2010 in Pennsylvania by buckling up. And be sure your children have the proper car seats and boosters whenever you take them out.
- Wear a helmet on your motorcycle. Studies reveal 57 Pennsylvania bikers’ lives were saved in 2010 by wearing helmets. An estimated 47 more would be alive today if they had been helmeted.
- Be aware of vehicles around you. Know where other cars and trucks are. Look, then look again, when changing lanes.
- Use your turn signals. Even when it seems you are alone on the road, always signal your intentions. Other drivers are not mind readers.
- Be especially careful at intersections. This is where a great number of accidents occur.
- Keep a distance from large commercial trucks. It’s a fact: 18-wheelers take longer to stop, occupy more road, need wider turn space, and have less visibility than other vehicles. Give them a wide berth.
If you practice safe driving, you can avoid a serious Pennsylvania motor vehicle accident and at Schell Law Office that is exactly what we hope you will do. However, if, despite all your precautions, something out of your control causes a crash, call us today at 215-545-9000 to get the help you need.