Driving in Texas can be dangerous, with over 4,500 car accidents occurring in the state in 2021. These statistics show that 10 people are killed every day in a car crash in Texas. Being a safe and attentive driver is crucial to avoiding an accident. Here are five tips to help you prevent getting into a collision and stay safe in Odessa or anywhere else in Texas.
Take Care When Changing Lanes and Turning
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 1030 people were killed in accidents involving intersections in 2022. Checking your blind spots before changing lanes or merging onto a highway can help avoid a dangerous sideswipe or collision. Take a few extra seconds when changing lanes to turn your head and visually clear your vehicle’s blind spots.
Leave Plenty of Space Between Vehicles
Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end crashes. When traffic slows or stops suddenly, leaving adequate space between your car and the vehicle in front provides critical extra time to brake. As a general rule, you should allow at least 3-4 seconds of following distance from the car ahead.
This extra cushion will help prevent you from needing to make sudden, hard braking maneuvers.
Obey Speed Limits
Speeding is a major factor in serious injury and fatal accidents, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research. It was the leading cause of crashes in 2022, resulting in 1,469 deaths. Observe posted speed limits, especially in high-risk areas like school zones and neighborhoods. Adjust your speed appropriately for traffic conditions and leave early to avoid needing to rush. You’ll have additional response time to avoid an accident by obeying speed limits.
Minimize Driver Distractions
Distracted driving was a factor in 1 in 6 accidents on Texas roads in 2022. Eating, talking on your cell, and adjusting music are all examples of dangerous driver distractions that lead to accidents in Odessa. Eliminate as many distractions inside your vehicle as possible, and keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road at all times.
If you must deal with something distracting like adjusting navigation or answering a call, first pull safely off the road.
Stay Alert for Pedestrians and Cyclists
There are over 2000 cycle routes in Odessa. With many pedestrians and cyclists on the streets, drivers must remain vigilant at intersections and in neighborhoods. Take extra care when making right-hand turns or backing up, scanning carefully for vulnerable road users. Yield appropriately when pedestrians are crossing sidewalks and bike lanes. Exercising caution around people outside vehicles can protect lives and prevent devastating accidents.
Being in an Odessa accident, even if it’s not your fault, can be stressful and traumatic. If you end up in a crash, be sure to get checked out by medical professionals. According to Ryan Zehl, a car accident lawyer in Odessa, TX, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced attorney to protect your rights as you navigate insurance claims; they can handle communications and negotiations so you can focus on recovery.
Staying focused on the road and avoiding risky behaviors like speeding, tailgating, and distractions can help keep you safe. Following these tips conscientiously whenever you drive around Odessa makes accidents less likely, keeping you and others on the road out of harm’s way. With attentiveness and caution, we can work together as a community to reduce crashes in Odessa.
