It’s National Traffic Awareness Month: Traffic Laws & Safe Driving Habits to Prevent Crashes.
Traffic is a daily reality as we move from place to place and we all play a role in keeping our roads safe, whether we’re driving, walking, or riding a bicycle. By following traffic laws and committing to safe driving habits to prevent crashes, motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists can make our roads safer for everyone.
August is National Traffic Awareness Month. This event was created to draw attention to the critical importance of road safety for everyone while encouraging drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to practice vigilance and adhere to traffic laws and commit to safer driving habits.
Unfortunately, even safe drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists can be injured because of someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a traffic accident caused by another person’s careless or reckless actions, schedule a free consultation with a local personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights.
Top 12 Most Important Traffic Laws and Safe Driving Habits to Prevent Crashes
Traffic laws are in place to help prevent crashes, protect everyone on the road, and create predictable driving conditions. While specific laws vary by state, some of the most important rules include:
- Obey speed limits. Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
- Stop at red lights and stop signs. Always come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way when required.
- Never drive under the influence. Alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
- Wear your seat belt. Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash.
- Yield to pedestrians and cyclists. Watch for people crossing the street, using crosswalks, or riding alongside traffic.
Follow these traffic laws to avoid getting a ticket, but also to protect yourself and others on the road.
Safe Driving Habits That Help Prevent Crashes
Following the law is essential, but safe driving also means making smart decisions behind the wheel. Developing good habits can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
- Avoid distracted driving. Many states prohibit texting or using a handheld device while driving because even a momentary distraction can lead to a serious accident.
- Don’t tailgate or partake in other aggressive driving behaviors. Leave enough space between your vehicle and the one ahead to react to sudden stops and do not change lanes aggressively.
- Use your turn signals. Signaling your intentions gives other drivers time to respond safely.
- Adjust for weather and road conditions. Slow down in rain, snow, fog, or heavy traffic, and increase your following distance when roads are slippery.
- Watch for other road users. Be especially alert for motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, school buses, and emergency vehicles.
- Drive defensively. Anticipate the unexpected and assume other drivers may make mistakes.
You can help protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone who shares the road by following these safe driving behaviors.
Seek the Help of a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! Since 1979, our personal injury law firm, Tario & Associates, P.S., has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured throughout Washington State, with local offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon to serve residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
