Avoiding car accidents often involves not only following the rules of the road, but also using some common sense. Experts recommend that drivers follow these tips to avoid car accidents:

1) Make lane changes correctly. Check your blind spots first and always pass on the left. Never pass in a no-passing lane. Driving and passing all over the place only increase your risk of an accident. Dangerous, risky driving increases your risk of personal injury and fatalities, so be willing to wait a little to pass or change lanes correctly.

2) Use your lights correctly. If you are turning or changing lanes, turn on your signal lights before you make your move. If you are stopping by the side of the road because there is something wrong with your vehicle, leave your flashers on. Your lights are your best way of communicating with other drivers and are invaluable in preventing accidents.

3) Exercise extra caution in parking lots. Parking lots mean lots of competition for coveted spots, pedestrians, and poor visibility. This can add up to risky situations and pedestrian accidents. While you are generally not driving very fast in a parking lot, a crash here can cost you in insurance and in time. Always slow down in parking lots and be extra vigilant about checking blind spots.

4) Keep a distance between you and the car in front of you. You should be able to see the back tires of the vehicle in front of you at all times. If you are driving fast or are on a highway, you should be able to see the car’s side mirrors, as well. Tailgating means that you won’t have enough time to stop suddenly if you have to. If someone is tailgating you, signal the driver to go around you.

5) Be aware when you are in someone’s blind spot. The area between the rear view mirror and the side mirror is the blind spot for most drivers. While drivers are supposed to check their blind spots before changing lanes, not all do. Stay out of other cars’ blind spots to avoid accidents.

6) Use extra caution when driving near trucks. Trucks need more time to stop, especially when on a slant or hill. They also tend to take up much more room when changing lanes and tend to have more blind spots. Keep these things in mind when sharing the road with trucks