Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Holiday drivers face extra hazards at this time of year. There are distracted, ill, and drunk drivers on Hollywood and Florida roads and the roads are often filled with more drivers due to holiday events and shopping. The extra traffic, extra drinking, and added stress can all add up to more dangers on the roads. However, there are things you can do to reduce your chances of being injured in a collision at this time of year:
1) Get your car into the best condition possible.
This is a good time to get a tune-up. The better your car responds, the better your chances of avoiding a collision, especially if you need to maneuver suddenly to avoid a crash. Pay attention to your tires and brakes in particular. Make sure that your car’s tires have good treads that grip the road and ensure that brakes work so that you can avoid parking lot crashes and other collisions common at this time of year.
If you will be leaving Florida and heading to any state where snow is likely, you will need to take your car to a mechanic to get the car ready for winter driving. You will need proper winter tires if you will be driving on ice and snow. If you will be driving on unpaved snow- and ice-covered roads, you will need studded tires as well as tire chains to get a better grip on the road surface. When driving in winter weather, you will also need anti-freeze and windshield wiper fluid that is designed for cold temperatures. If you have never driven in winter conditions, you may also want to get some instruction about winter driving.
2) Keep yourself in the best physical condition to drive.
Get plenty of rest and stay sober if you will be driving. Do not drive if you are unwell or ill and cannot focus easily. Avoid driving if you are upset, angry, or very emotional or distracted. You should only drive when you are physically and emotionally ready to do so. If you have been drinking or are upset, distracted, fatigued, or unwell, take a taxi or find another way to get to your destination.
3) Drive defensively.
Always think two or three moves ahead and use your mirrors to stay aware of what is happening around you as you drive. Anticipating the movements of other drivers and anticipating potential hazards is very important at this time of year, when other drivers may be distracted and may be making mistakes.
4) Review your car insurance coverage and get the best insurance you can afford.
If the worst does happen and you are in a traffic collision, make sure that you and your passengers are covered. This is a good time to look at your insurance policy and to make sure that it still meets your needs. Contact your insurance carrier and other insurance companies to get a quote if it has been some time since you last updated your policy. You may be able to get better insurance coverage for the same price by shopping around.
The law firm of Flaxman Law Group has offices in Homestead, Hollywood, and Miami. We are proud to serve the entire South Florida community and are honored to act as strong representatives for those who have been injured. If you have been in a car accident and have suffered an injury, do not hesitate to contact us to get legal advice and representation.