Driver negligence is the leading cause of car accidents in Mississippi, resulting in serious injuries and death. As the person behind the wheel, protecting yourself and others from harm is your top priority.
Before you enter your vehicle, here are reminders for practicing safe driving.
-
Wear your seat belt properly.
Mississippi requires you to wear seat belts as a precaution. This effectively prevents you from leaving your seat during a sudden stop or crash.
With that said, wear your seat belt as soon as you enter the car. Ensure the shoulder and lap belts lie flat on your body and that the buckle is locked properly.
-
Be alert.
Anything can happen when you are driving, such as a car swerving. You must stay vigilant and drive defensively to anticipate any signs of danger. If you sense that something bad could happen, always choose the low-risk option on the road.
-
Minimize distractions.
Car crashes commonly happen due to distractions. Keeping your eyes off the road for a mere second can trigger a series of unfortunate events. To avoid this, here are some tips to help you focus on driving carefully:
-
Monitor your emotions, as these could remove your attention from the road.
-
Refrain from playing loud music in the car or wearing headphones while driving.
-
Remove objects from your windshield to get an unobstructed view of the road.
-
Avoid using your cellphone while driving.
In case you need to make a text or call, park in a car-free area before doing so.
-
Use the car’s signal lights.
Drivers on the road will not know what is on your mind until you let them know. If you are planning to move to another lane or overtake a car, flip the lever to turn on your car’s signal lights.
Hitting another vehicle due to a lack of communication on the road is possible. This danger may affect others nearby, which is why it is important to use car signals.
-
Avoid driving under the influence.
Mississippi strictly prohibits driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Violators will have to submit to the law.
Drunk driving impairs your reflexes and reaction time, which could put you and others in danger. If you have had a few drinks or are feeling drunk, ask a sober friend to bring you home instead or book a ridesharing service.
Prepare backup plans in case of an emergency
Accidents occur without notice, so you need to prepare a backup plan. Ensure to save contacts, such as emergency hotlines and your loved ones’ phone numbers, on speed dial in your phone for easy access. You may also install dashboard cameras that can document your rides and serve as evidence for inspection. Having these ready beforehand could mitigate damages and get you help quickly.