Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Every year, tens of thousands of Americans lose their lives in roadway accidents and tens of thousands of Hollywood and Florida drivers are injured in the state. While you might not be able to do much about the driving habits of those around you, there are things you can do to make 2016 the safest year ever for you as a driver.
Building new habits and setting new intentions for your driving can make you a stronger driver and can reduce your risk of an accident. Here are ten habits that can make you more confident and safer on the road:
1) Get a new attitude about distraction.
Many motorists in Hollywood and Florida understand that texting and driving can be dangerous, but distracted driving is still a concern in Southern Florida. Part of the reason is because many drivers don’t consider all the causes of distraction. Using hands-free mobile devices, having an animated conversation with passengers, and even daydreaming can be just as deadly as texting and driving. Anything that takes your mind, eyes, or hands off driving is a danger. Turning off your mobile devices when you get in the car is a good start, but don’t overlook other sources of distracting.
2) Go see your doctor.
When’s the last time you visited an eye doctor or your general physician? “Hidden” medical conditions – such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and other medical concerns – can eventually lead to situations affecting your safety on the road. See your doctors for a physical or checkup each year to ensure your body is in peak physical condition to drive.
3) Get serious about sleep.
Fatigue is a national epidemic and it can increase your risk of workplace accidents, car accidents, and can increase your risk of hypertension and other life-threatening diseases. Getting adequate sleep every night can keep you safer at work and while driving.
4) Tackle driving skills the same way you tackle your career goals.
You may be investing in skills-building to move up the ladder at work, but are you putting the same effort into your driving? Just as you become a life-long learner to better yourself and your job opportunities, investing in driving skills can keep you safer and can make you a better driving. If you haven’t already, sign up for refresher courses, defensive driving, or racing classes to become a better driver.
5) Get feedback – and listen.
Do you and your friends joke about your poor driving skills? If your friends and family are worried about your driving skills or if you have had multiple near-misses or fender benders, that’s important feedback. These are clues and you’ll want to take them seriously by getting a driving instructor to evaluate your driving. Or, work with a driver rehabilitation professional if a disability or age may be affecting your driving.
If you have been injured while driving in Hollywood or anywhere in South Florida, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free accident consultation. Our dedicated legal team has more than 60 years of combined experience and has already successfully recovered settlements for thousands of injured clients. Our law firm has offices in Hollywood, Homestead, and Miami to serve the entire South Florida area. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you think you may have a claim.