Summer road trips are an American tradition, especially for Arizona residents eager to explore our state's stunning landscapes, national parks, and vibrant cities. While hitting the open road can be exhilarating, it's important to stay vigilant about safety. As a personal injury law firm, we understand the impact car accidents can have on your life.
Keep reading for practical tips on avoiding accidents and having a safe journey.
Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Vehicle malfunctions and breakdowns can lead to accidents. Before your road trip, ensure your vehicle is in good, drivable condition. This is especially important for older cars.
Essential checks include:
- Tires: Ensure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread.
- Brakes: Make sure they are functioning correctly.
- Fluids: Check oil, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid levels.
- Lights and signals: Verify that all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals work.
If you are planning a longer trip, perform this check well in advance so that any repair issues can be addressed before you leave.
Plan Your Route
Planning your route not only helps you avoid getting lost but also allows you to identify any potential hazards. For example, if part of your route is under construction (and construction is widespread during the summer), you may want to reroute. Similarly, if your route doesn't have enough gas stations or rest stops, you can change your plans to ensure you have access to the services you need.
When planning your route, you should:
- Check road conditions: Use apps or websites like AZ511 for real-time traffic updates.
- Identify rest stops: Plan to take breaks every two hours to avoid fatigue.
- Know your exits: Familiarize yourself with critical exits and alternative routes.
Stay Alert & Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents. As tempting as it might be to check your phone or adjust the radio, these actions can have serious consequences. Furthermore, you cannot rely on other drivers to not be distracted themselves.
Tips for avoiding distractions on the road include:
- Limit phone use: Use hands-free devices if you need to take calls.
- Set up GPS before you start: Input your destination before starting your journey.
- Avoid eating while driving: Take the time to eat during planned stops rather than while driving.
Signs of distracted driving in other drivers include swerving, sudden braking, inconsistent speeds, and delayed responses to traffic signals; if you spot these behaviors, maintain a safe distance and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.
What to Do If You Are Injured in an Accident
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. Knowing what to do in the aftermath can significantly affect your well-being and any potential legal claims.
Take these steps immediately after an accident:
- Move to safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions.
- Check for injuries: Ensure everyone is safe and call 911 if medical assistance is needed.
- Report the accident: Contact local law enforcement to file an official report.
Gathering evidence is crucial in the aftermath of an accident. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Additionally, collect contact details from witnesses, and exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver involved.
Seek Medical Attention
After a car accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention, even if you feel uninjured or believe your injuries are minor. Adrenaline, shock, and inflammation can mask pain and symptoms immediately following an accident, leading to serious health issues if left untreated.
Common injuries from car accidents that might not be immediately apparent include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue injuries
- Herniated discs
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. A qualified personal injury lawyer like ours at Alex & Associates, P.C. can help. We can assess your case, investigate the accident, and help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
For more information or immediate assistance, call (602) 483-6114 or contact us online. We are here to help you through every step of the way.