All drivers on the road should ensure they’re operating their vehicles in the safest manner possible. When drivers aren’t safe, they’re putting others on the road at risk of being involved in a crash.
Unfortunately, one dangerous driver can cause a catastrophic crash that dramatically impacts other people. Anyone who’s driving should ensure they don’t succumb to these hazardous driving habits.
#1: Merging improperly
Improper merging, which includes aggressively preventing other drivers from merging and being too timid when trying to merge, can cause traffic jams or crashes. Merging should work like a zipper, even when drivers knew well in advance that they would need to merge.
#2: Failing to check blind spots
Blind spots are especially problematic when you’re switching lanes. Always check the blind spots before you merge so you can avoid coming into contact with another driver. All motorists should ensure they use turn signals so everyone around them knows their intentions.
#3: Ignoring traffic signs and signals
Traffic signs and signals help to keep the flow of traffic moving optimally. Never try to accelerate through a yellow light or run a stop sign. While some traffic signals have a delay set to reduce the risk of crashes from people speeding through yellow lights, it’s best never to take the chance. Additionally, always check crossing traffic to ensure nobody is speeding through right when the light turns green.
#4: Failing to account for road conditions
Road conditions have a profound impact on safety. Allow extra time and distance if it’s raining or wet. It will take drivers longer to start moving and more distance for them to stop. Cutting vehicles off in these conditions, especially cutting off semitrucks, is particularly dangerous when the roads are slick.
#5: Multitasking while driving
Even safe drivers can become victims of crashes due to these causes if another driver crashes into them. If this happens, the victim might opt to pursue a claim for compensation that seeks to recover damages related to the wreck. South Carolina law limits how long you have to file these claims, so work with someone who can get this done quickly.
