The Michigan State Police says that the state has an average of more than 290,000 automobile accidents every year. And research shows that most accidents occur due to distracted driving and speeding. As you may have guessed, young drivers are the most impacted by both of these factors. In addition, alcohol and drug impairment tend to be the primary contributors of speeding; however, wet and icy roads and weather can also cause drivers to drive faster than the speed limit. Finally, most accidents happen within 10 miles of home.
So, safe driving is key to keeping you and your family safe. Let’s look at some common auto accidents and ways to prevent them:
Single vehicle accidents
This type of accident includes hitting obstacles like traffic barriers, debris in the road, or animals. These car cause damage and injury when driving off-road. To help prevent the a dingle vehicle accident, be aware of the road conditions and drive accordingly. Pay attention and don’t speed.
Rear-end collisions
These commonly are the reason for auto insurance claims. Whether you are the driver who hits a vehicle in front of you or the driver who gets hit by a vehicle behind you, try to prevent this by heeding these suggestions:
- Stay far enough behind the car in front of you so you can stop safely, especially in bad weather. Stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you, and add more distance if the weather conditions are poor.
- Try to avoid situations that could force you to stop suddenly, like when a motorist is following you too closely or isn’t paying attention. This way you might keep from being rear-ended.
- Don’t drive distracted by looking at your phone or tuning the radio. If the driver in front of you stops suddenly, you may not have enough room to stop and could rear-end their vehicle.
- Don’t drive if you’re drowsy or under the influence.
Intersection collisions
Distracted drivers aren’t paying attention to traffic signals or they don’t see vehicles stooping before making a turn. When the signal changes from red to green, quickly pause to be certain that no one is coming through the intersection. Watch for motorists speeding to make it through a yellow light.
Collisions when backing up
To prevent accidents when backing up, try to avoid the need to back up in the first place. If you’re able, park so you won’t have to back up into traffic. You could pull through or back into a parking spot. And use your backup camera, if your vehicle has one. If your vehicle doesn’t have a backup camera, remember these tips:
- Before getting into your car, take a look around to assess your surroundings and traffic patterns.
- Go slowly and keep checking traffic around you.
- Back out using the shortest, most direct route available.
- Back up in a straight line and turn only when clear of parked vehicles or other obstructions.
- Use your mirrors and brakes until you’re completely out of the spot and into traffic.
- Never do anything distracting while backing out.
Parked car damage
Another common cause of car damage happens when your parked vehicle is hit by another car. Here are some ways to help avoid parked car collisions and claims:
- Use a parking space away from heavy traffic to reduce your odds of getting hit by another car or truck.
- Center your vehicle in the parking space so you’re not hit by others pulling in or out of nearby spots.
- Park in a garage if possible—it’s much safer there than on the street.
- If you are parking on the street, try to park away from near busy intersections, tight turns, and driveways because other drivers may not see your vehicle and could side-swipe you.
Drive defensively and anticipate potential hazards, be aware of your surroundings, and be ready to react to unexpected situations. Also, use preventative measures to avoid an accident. This includes maintaining your vehicle’s tires, brakes, and lights. Don’t drive if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using drugs and wear your seatbelt.
Contact Us
If you or a family member are involved in an auto accident in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for serious injuries. You need a reliable Michigan auto accident attorney that understands the Michigan no-fault insurance laws and can get you what you deserve.
For a free consultation with an experienced auto accident attorney in Michigan, contact Buchanan Firm. Our firm proudly serves people all across Michigan, including major cities like Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Detroit, Lansing, Holland, St. Joe, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor, and rural towns such as Lowell, Ada, Fremont, Newaygo, Grand Haven, Rockford, and Cedar Springs. We will meet you after hours, at home, or in the hospital to accommodate you.