Inexperienced drivers can be particularly dangerous behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car accidents kill more than 2,000 teens every year, and they send nearly 300,000 to emergency rooms with traumatic injuries.
If you were injured by another driver’s negligence, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP. A personal-injury attorney in New York City can evaluate your crash and explain your legal options.
We have recovered tens of millions of dollars for our clients. Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation, and visit http://accident.usattorneys.com/new-york/ to learn more about car accident claims.
Here are five safety tips for inexperienced drivers:
- Drive Slower Than Speed Limits
Speeding increases the risk of an accident. It decreases the amount of time the driver has to evade a hazard.
If you are a teen or new licensee, it is wiser to drive slower than the speed limit until you are comfortable matching it. Do not match the speed of other drivers if they are breaking the law. Instead, drive in the slow lane.
- Do Not Use Cell Phones behind the Wheel
Cell phones have become the leading distractions of drivers worldwide. Thousands of people die every year because drivers check their notifications or send text messages. Cell phone use is just as dangerous as intoxicated driving, so make a responsible decision and put your phone in the glove box or trunk.
- Do Not Transport Passengers
Passengers are more distracting than most people realize. If you are a new driver, avoid transporting passengers for at least six months.
When you feel comfortable carrying passengers, be sure to set ground rules to prevent distractions. Passengers should not be loud, and they should not use cell phones – especially to watch videos or play games. In particular, passengers should never request that the driver looks at a video, photo or text message.
- Improve Your Visibility
Switch on your headlights when it is raining or dark. This will make it easier for other motorists to see you.
Also, use your turn signals to indicate your intentions. If other drivers can predict your actions, they can make the appropriate adjustments to prevent an accident.
- Drive Defensively
Continuously survey the traffic behind, ahead and next to your vehicle. When travelling slowly, leave at least one car length of space between you and the leading vehicle. Maintain a longer following distance when moving at faster speeds.
You should also ask your insurance provider if it offers discounts for taking defensive driving courses. This can save you money while potentially helping you avoid collisions.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, it is critical that you take steps to protect your interests. Contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP.
An accident lawyer in New York City can evaluate your crash, gather evidence and help you pursue the maximum compensation. Our attorneys have more than 75 years of combined experience negotiating injury cases. Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation.