Making the Daily Commute Safer

February 19, 2020

The trials and tribulations of commuting to work is something that millions of working Americans face every day. Whether they drive or take public transportation, there is always the chance of getting into an accident, which increases when the weather is bad, during holidays, and from other unforeseen circumstances. The good news is that there are ways to make this daily commute safer, and requires some forethought and planning.

Vehicle Maintenance and Safety

To decrease the chance of an accident, cars should follow regular maintenance schedules. Most need oil changes every 3,000 miles, though newer ones can go longer. Owners can check with manufacturers, and find out about tire pressure checks. Topping off fluids is also important, especially during colder weather.

New vehicles also have the advantage of advanced safety features. Some include anti-lock brakes, blind spot detection, lane departure warnings, back-up assist cameras, and side air bags. Older models that do not have this technology may be putting their drivers at higher risk for accidents and injuries.

Timing, Routes, and More Space

When possible, drivers can try shifting their hours to avoid the heaviest traffic. Instead of the traditional nine-to-five schedule, many companies allow employees to start earlier and leave later, or vice versa. Finding alternate routes is another way to bypass the worst of it, and GPS systems are very helpful with this.

Commuters who give other drivers enough room on the roads allow themselves extra time to stop to prevent crashes. This also makes it easier for people to change lanes and is helpful when traffic is moving normally, or when it is backed up. Advocacy groups also recommend staying in the middle lane when on three-lane highways, since the left is for passing and the right often has the slower drivers.

Avoid Distractions and Aggressive Driving

Rush hour can be frustrating, so it is important to remain calm and focused, even in the worst traffic. It is common to encounter aggressive drivers during this time, so it is best to stay as far away from them as possible. Keeping alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and road debris is also important.

Commuting every day can become monotonous too, but this is not the time to pull out the phone to text or catch up with social media. Other distractions, such as eating and grooming, should also be avoided. One way to stay occupied safely is to listen to a podcast or audio book as this can be calming and make the time go by faster.

Public Transport

Commuters who take trains and buses do not have to worry so much about driving, but there are other factors that they cannot control, such as engines breaking down and trains derailing. To prepare for emergency situations, commuters should make emergency plans of time and share this information with their families, friends, or co-workers. These contacts should know the commuter’s route and how to reach them, if needed.

Huntsville Car Accident Attorneys at Hodges Trial Lawyers, P.C. Help Car Accident Victims Receive the Compensation They Deserve

No matter what time of day your car accident occurred, an experienced Huntsville car accident attorney at Hodges Trial Lawyers, P.C. can offer skilled legal guidance. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 256-539-3110. Located in Huntsville and Athens, Alabama, we serve clients throughout North Alabama, Madison County, Limestone County, Marshall County, Jackson County, Morgan County, and Lauderdale County.