Auto Accident Lawyer’s Prevention Tips: Five Surprising Crash Risk Factors in Phoenix, Arizona

           

            Every year, countless lives are affected by car accidents in Phoenix, Arizona. Whether it’s an injured loved one or whether you are an accident survivor, few people can say that they’ve never been involved in some kind of crash. While auto accident lawyers in Phoenix, Arizona like Rudolph & Hammond are here to help you if you’ve been in an accident, prevention is always the best defense.

            Every day individuals put themselves in harm’s way behind the wheel without realizing it. Here are five surprising crash risk factors in Phoenix, Arizona.

1.                          Driving in the “fast lane.” According to Edmunds, the “fast lane” or left lane on the highway can actually put you at greater risk of a crash. When you’re in the center or right lane, you have a better chance to change lanes or escape if you encounter a hazard or accident in the road ahead. Statistically, the left lane is where the most auto accidents take place.

2.                         Driving near cars with dents. Let the cars around you give you the story of a driver’s safety record. A car with more dents has been involved in more minor accidents. Individuals who drive dented cars may also not be taking in their cars for regular maintenance or repairs, putting you and your loved ones at risk. Avoid tailgating or driving close to these drivers and be aware of sudden lane changes or stops.

3.                         Passing trucks on the right side instead of the left. It is always safest to pass semi-trucks or other large vehicles on their left side rather than on the right. Why? In large trucks, drivers have a bigger blind spot on the right than they do on the left. Think about it. You want to pass a truck on the side where the driver is located, not on the side where there is no driver’s window.

4.                         Failing to perform proper maintenance. Regularly check brakes and tires. A blow-out can lead to a serious accident, and there’s not much you can do once it happens. Small details matter too. Make sure your headlights and brake lights are in working order. Change your windshield wipers regularly.

5.                         Driving into the city from a rural area. National Geographic recently reported on a newly-completed study that evaluated the risk of living in urban areas and rural areas. The results were shocking. Individuals driving in rural areas were found to be at greater risk of deadly car accidents. Why? The researchers suggested that trauma units in cities are often better prepared to deal with serious injuries from car accidents, giving victims a better chance to survive. People who commute from rural areas are more likely to spend more time behind the wheel, putting them at greater risk.

There are many steps drivers can take to prevent accidents. Yet, if you’ve been in an accident through no fault of your own, an auto accident lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona may be able to help you receive compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and rehabilitative care. Visit www.rudolphhammond.com today.