Car crashes remain one of the biggest concerns for both authorities and members of the general public, as although the number of collisions has decreased over the decades, there are still far too many incidents in which vehicles end up colliding with each other. According to a recent report, Ireland has recorded the biggest increase in the number of road fatalities in the European Union between 2019 and 2023, of 31pc, far above the Union’s average rate of 11pc. Some of the measures proposed to reduce the number of crashes as well as the associated fatalities include the development of a probation period lasting two years for the new drivers, the implementation of better training and testing for the road issues that might arise, develop more targeted assessments for the medical fitness of drivers, and commence accompanied driving of both cars and lorries starting from the age of seventeen to ensure drivers gain experience.
In Scotland, the uptick in the number of car crashes has been correlated with excessive tourism, since many of those who visit the country come from places where the rules are very different (especially the rules of which side of the road you’re supposed to drive on), meaning that they inevitably end up making mistakes, some of which have dire consequences. In Wales, the 20mph speed limit significantly reduced the number of road deaths, with fewer than 100 individuals killed or seriously injured a year following its adoption. And while it is impossible to predict every single collision, it is important that you take every precaution when you’re behind the wheel.
Belt up
There are some situations in which you are the victim of an accident that had nothing to do with you not being careful enough. Many drivers are aggressive, take unnecessary risks, and some are not even fully aware of the rules (or, if they are, they feel comfortable ignoring them). In cases such as those, you need to get in touch with a solicitor specialising in personal injuries. Getting compensation for rear-end collision claims is much easier when you have an expert guiding you, informing you about the type of evidence you need to bring to support your case (including a thorough assessment of your injuries written by a physician, photographs of the vehicles, and receipts attesting to the travel and missed work hours you had to deal with), and what are the realistic sums that you can expect.
When it comes to safety, though, the fundamental thing is to fasten your seatbelt every single time. It doesn’t matter how short the trip is or if you feel confident that you know the road ahead like the back of your hand. Something unexpected can still happen, and it’s better to be prepared. The belt, when correctly positioned, should be away from your neck and across the middle of your chest. The lap belt must sit across your hips, not over the stomach. Misuse can be dangerous, but not wearing it similarly increases the risk of serious injuries and even death in the event of a car crash, including for children and older adults.
If you have passengers in the car, make sure all of them are wearing their seatbelts as well.
Always be sober
Driving while under the influence of alcohol is one of the most dangerous things you could do for both yourself and others. You’re senses and reflexes are impaired, so you can’t estimate or anticipate things the same way you would when sober. Having just one drink is more than enough, even if you don’t feel tipsy at all. The rule is simple: if you have drunk or have any other substance in your system, you shouldn’t get behind the wheel. Plan ahead and arrange for a ride on the way home before a special event, for instance. A sober friend or family member, taxis, ridesharing, and public transportation can all be used. Don’t get in a car with someone who has been drinking, either, and definitely don’t let them drive themselves or others either.
The same rule applies to driving: if you’re sleepy or taking medications that make you drowsy. If you need to drive at night, very early in the morning, or later in the afternoon, pay attention in order to spot any signs of sleepiness before they put you in a hazardous situation. Driving over road markings is one of them, and the moment you notice this, you should pull over, get some fresh air, and decide if you’re fit to keep driving or if it would be better for someone to come and pick you up.
Defensive driving
Driving defensively means anticipating dangers and reacting in a timely manner to prevent collisions. Adhering to speed limits and traffic signals, even in situations where it doesn’t feel like a must to do so, could save your life. Adjust your speed based on the road conditions and never run a red light. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times and never use your phone while driving, as it will distract you. If you need to answer a call or reply to a text, you must stop driving first.
Even conversations with your fellow passengers need to be brief, as they’ll distract you just as much. You must be mindful of the pedestrians and cyclists you share the space with as well, especially in areas where they’re likely to cross. Remember to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you and always increase the distance if you’re driving when it’s raining or snowing, as it takes longer to stop when roads are slippery.
Ideally, you shouldn’t be driving when there’s fog, snow, or rain, but there are situations where it just cannot be avoided. You need to be extra careful during those times and definitely don’t drive faster than you’re supposed to. Sudden braking on a wet road can also be very dangerous.
To sum up, while there are some situations in which the driving of others will affect you beyond the point of no return, you will more often than not be able to control your surroundings and keep yourself safe by following a few simple rules.
https://www.personalinjurysolicitorsdublin.info/car-accident-claims/rear-end-collision/
