Did you know that August is National Traffic Awareness Month? This month is dedicated to drawing attention to the importance of traffic safety, and sharing information to help reduce the astounding number of car accidents that occur yearly in the United States. Currently, the average number of car accidents annually is 6 million. 

We’re doing our part to educate the public and bring that number down as much as possible. Let’s start with the statistics.

 

Car Crash Statistics

Sharing information about the risks of reckless driving can help discourage dangerous driving practices by motivating other drivers to exercise caution on the road.

 

Safe Driving Tips for Special Conditions

Some conditions make it tricky for drivers to travel safely and avoid car crashes. Thankfully, the Missouri Department of Transportation has published a Driver Guide with chapters covering countless safety tips and guidelines. Check out these helpful safety tips pertaining to special conditions from the guide.

 

When Driving at Night…

  • Your headlights should be on 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. Make sure the headlights are clean and functioning properly. Keep in mind that your headlights only allow you to see about 350 feet ahead – adjust your speed accordingly.
  • Only use your high beams when there are no oncoming vehicles. Use your low beams whenever you are within 300 feet of an oncoming vehicle, or if you are 300 feet away or closer to a vehicle ahead of you.
  • Do not drive while tired.

 

Rain, Fog, & Wet Pavement

  • If it is raining, your headlights should be on, even in the daytime.
  • Do not use cruise control.
  • Remember to brake earlier than usual, but do not slam the brakes. Reduce your speed.
  • If your vehicle begins to skid, take your foot off the accelerator, but do not hit the brakes. Gently turn your steering wheel in the direction that your rear wheels are sliding. Be careful not to brake or turn sharply, because slamming the brakes or jerking the steering wheel will only make the skid worse.
  • When driving in fog, reduce your speed and only use your low beams. If the fog becomes too thick to see, pull over and turn on your hazard lights until it begins to clear.

 

Mechanical Issues

  • If your brake pedal suddenly sinks to the floor, pump the brake pedal fast and hard several times. If that doesn’t work, use your emergency or parking brake, but use it gradually. Then, shift to a low gear and look for a place to slow to a stop. Make sure your vehicle is off the road. After the vehicle has stopped, call for help: don’t try to drive to a mechanic.
  • If you have a tire blowout, you may hear a loud bang followed by repeated thumping. The steering wheel may jerk, and you may lose control of your vehicle. If this happens, hold the steering wheel tightly, and take your foot off the accelerator without hitting the brakes. Let your vehicle slow to a stop completely off the road. Apply the brakes when the vehicle is almost stopped. Turn on your hazard lights, and change the tire if you can do so without putting yourself in danger.
  • If your vehicle doesn’t turn when you turn the wheel, take your foot off the accelerator and let your vehicle slow down. Do not hit the brakes until your vehicle has almost stopped, or unless you have to. Once stopped, turn on your hazard lights.

 

Work Zones

  • Reduce your speed, and do not engage in speeding.
  • Follow the directions given by the work zone signs, and or directions given by the flagger.
  • Give construction vehicles and employees as much room as you can safely.
  • Do not hit traffic cones or barrels.
  • Do not pass in work zones.

 

For more safety tips regarding the above conditions and other safe driving guidelines, view the Missouri Department of Transportation Driver Guide here.

If you’ve suffered a personal injury in a motor vehicle accident, contact us as soon as possible to schedule your initial consultation. There, you will receive free legal advice from a skilled St. Louis lawyer near you. Having an attorney on your side is the best way to pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate! Contact The S.E. Farris Law Firm.