Improper lane-changing is not only a leading cause of auto accidents by itself, but also a prime risk factor for road rage, which creates even more unnecessary danger for drivers on the road. Here are some helpful driving tips to reduce the risk of a lane-change accident:
– Check blind spots – Always make sure your mirrors are properly adjusted, and don’t rely solely on them if you’re also able to turn your head to make sure you can switch lanes.
– Use turn signals – Always use your turn signal when changing lanes, as failure to notify other drivers leaves them unprepared to react to your vehicle, which can result in an accident.
– Beware the far left lane – The far left lane is for the fast (and impatient) drivers, who can sometimes surprise drivers in other lanes when coming from behind at a high speed. Stay mindful of this lane to avoid turning in front of a speeding driver.
– Keep both hands on the wheel – This is especially important when driving at higher speeds, such as on highways. If someone cuts you off or begins to merge into you, you will have more time to react when both hands are on the wheel.
– Yield to merging traffic – Where vehicles are merging onto the highway, try to avoid close encounters by moving to a left lane or allowing a vehicle to merge in front of you. Assuming that braking abruptly is not necessary, it is better to allow the vehicle to merge rather than speed up to try to get ahead first.
– Move one lane at a time – Never move across multiple lanes in one motion. This is a careless and dangerous maneuver which can quickly result in an accident. Always check the lane next to you before moving into it, especially on highways.
– Beware of impaired/distracted drivers – Avoid any vehicles that are driving too fast or slow, weaving in and out of traffic, or switching lanes without a turn signal. The driver may be distracted or driving under the influence of alcohol and it is best to distance yourself from the vehicle until you’re no longer moving in the same direction.
– Avoid driving on a truck’s right side – Trucks tend to drive in the right lanes, and driving on the right side of a truck can be dangerous if it attempts to switch lanes without checking the blind spots. Stay to the left of large trucks and get ahead of them if you can do so safely.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. Lastly, America’s Consumer Lawyer is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.
