Driving in Pittsburgh, like many other cities, can be dangerous. The weather conditions can be less than ideal in the winter, with snow and ice on the ground. Other drivers may act negligently or even recklessly. The road itself could be in poor condition and lead to an accident.
While it’s impossible to avoid every accident, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of a car wreck the next time you get behind the wheel. Whether you have been driving for 20 years or 20 days, some driving safety tips remain the same.
Keep up with car maintenance
One of the key ways you can stay safe on the road is to keep your car well maintained. This includes ensuring that the tires and brakes stay in good working order. Also, be sure that your fluids receive scheduled changes and remain full. In addition, take your car to your favorite mechanics for factory recommended engine checks and maintenance. Breaking down in the middle of the road can easily result in an accident and regular maintenance can reduce your chances of this happening.
Keep yourself ready to drive
In addition to your car, you also need to maintain yourself. This means keeping up with your eyeglass or contact prescription so that you can see clearly while driving. Also take care of your general health. By staying healthy, you increase your ability to make good decisions and reaction time.
One task at a time
When you are behind the wheel, avoid distractions. Phone calls and texts can wait until you can stop in a safe place. Even adjusting your seat, mirrors or changing the radio station can cause enough of a distraction to lead to a car accident. Take care of these before you ever leave your home, work or any other place where you park.
Drive defensively
Defensive driving can also go a long way to keep you safe while you are out and about. Good defensive driving usually involves actions such as always checking your blind spots, looking both ways before entering an intersection keeping a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles.
The above tips can go along way to keep you safe on the road, but no matter how careful you are, you can still become a victim of a reckless driver. If this happens, it is vital to remember that you have options. You might be able to file a claim for your medical expenses, car damages and any other losses you suffered due to the accident.