Tips to Avoid Accidents

Our Wright On Time Auto Technicians are on the road a lot and see a lot of accidents. While no one plans to have an accident, we all can plan to avoid them. During the holiday season we often see more people on the roads - shopping, traveling and shopping.

Safe driving can go a long way in ensuring your precious cargo, your loved ones and their gifts arrive safely. Below are a few tips on how to help avoid some common accidents:

Rear-end Collisions

Rear-end collisions are far too common and can be costly. Whether you are the driver who hits a vehicle in front of you, or the driver who gets hit by a vehicle behind you, these accidents can often be avoided. Consider these tips:

• Keep your distance. Drive far enough behind the car in front of you so you can stop safely. This is especially true in inclement weather. Stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you, and longer if you’re in a heavier vehicle. Extend the timing when weather conditions are bad.

• Drive strategically. Avoid situations that could force you to suddenly use your brakes. If a driver is following you too closely or isn’t paying attention, you might be rear-ended.

• Don’t get distracted. Never take your eyes off the road to eat, read a text message or find your phone. If the driver ahead of you stops suddenly, it only takes a second or less of not paying attention to rear-end their vehicle.

• Don’t drive when drowsy or under the influence. You’re more likely to make driving errors when you’re sleepy or impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Single-vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents include collisions with road barriers, debris or animals, in addition to rollovers and accidents when driving off-road. It’s not hard to help prevent them.

• Drive right for the weather. Even if yours is the only vehicle on the road on a rainy, snowy or icy day (see our video tips on driving in inclement weather), drive at speeds that allow you to maintain control. Its important learn how to avoid hydroplaning on flooded roads and refreash your winter drinking skills before the season begins. (Visit the source link at the end of this post for more.)

• Always pay attention. Just because you’re the only person on the road doesn’t mean it’s okay to text, make hands-on phone calls or eat while driving. You never know when conditions might change.

• Don’t drive too fast. Speeding has been involved in approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities for more than two decades. Simply put, speeding is dangerous, even if there is no one else around you.

Crashes at Intersections

Intersections are another place where accidents frequently occur. Distracted drivers may miss traffic signals changing from green to yellow to red. Or they don’t notice vehicles pausing before making turns.

• Practice defensive driving to help avoid accidents.

• Take a moment after the light turns green to make sure no one is coming through the intersection.

• Look out for drivers speeding to make it through a yellow light on a cross street. When you’re approaching a yellow light, be cautious rather than take chances.

➡️ One final note here from our experienced drivers: The left lane is for passing! Those driving at a slower pace should avoid this lane to keep it clear for vehicles that wish to pass. You'll often see signs stating Slower traffic keep right/right lane. Hanging out in the left lane can cause avoidable accidents!

🛣️ Left lane is the passing lane. Middle lane is the commuting lane. Right lane is for commuting/speed under limits or if you need to drive with your hazard lights on etc.

We hope you all have a happy and safe holiday season!🎄

Wright On Time Auto ~ We're always Wright On time ⏱️

source credit:Travelers.com