Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of modern life, sometimes leading to serious and fatal injuries. These incidents can have long-lasting impacts on the health and well-being of those involved. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of these incidents can be overwhelming.
Despite the inherent risks associated with driving, there are effective measures that can be employed to prevent injuries in an accident. By adopting a proactive approach and incorporating certain safety practices, drivers and passengers can better protect themselves on the road.
#1: Always Wear a Seat Belt
One of the most fundamental and effective safety measures that you can take is to wear a seat belt. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, seat belts are required by law for all drivers and passengers. Seat belts are designed to secure occupants in their seats, preventing them from being thrown around inside the vehicle or ejected during a collision. They also distribute the forces of a crash across the stronger parts of the body, like the chest and pelvis, greatly reducing the risk of fatal injuries. Whenever you are inside a vehicle, even if you are only traveling down the road, wear your seat belt—this decision may save your life.
#2: Properly Adjust and Position Your Headrest
Ensuring that your headrest is adjusted to the correct height and angle can provide significant protection in the event of a crash. The top of the headrest should be level with the top of your head. While driving or riding in a car, make sure the headrest is properly positioned and keep the back of your head as close to it as possible.
#3: Avoid Sitting Too Close to the Airbags
Airbags are a vital safety feature in motor vehicles, designed to cushion the impact in a crash. However, sitting too close to an airbag can be dangerous, as the force of its deployment can cause serious injuries. Maintaining a safe distance between yourself and the steering wheel or dashboard allows the airbag to fully inflate and effectively absorb the impact.
When driving a vehicle, avoid leaning forward against the steering wheel; instead, keep your back against your seat. When riding as a passenger, make sure to sit up straight and avoid leaning against or putting your legs up on the dashboard.
#4: Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
As a driver, one of the best ways to avoid accidents is to be vigilant about your surroundings. This means regularly checking your mirrors, being aware of blind spots, and keeping a safe following distance from other vehicles. Avoid distracted driving with mobile phones or other devices that take your attention away from the road; even a brief moment of inattention could lead to a collision.
#5: Keep Loose Items Stored Away
Unsecured items can become dangerous projectiles in a crash. Stowing away loose objects, like mobile phones, bags, or other personal items, in glove compartments or trunks, can prevent them from causing injury during sudden stops or collisions. This simple step can prevent additional injuries caused by flying objects within the car.
Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Today
Despite all precautions, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a car crash, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. A McAllen car accident lawyer can provide valuable support in dealing with the aftermath of an accident, from handling paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies. In these situations, don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury attorney in McAllen to learn about your next steps.
