Driving Safety Tips

Over 37,000 people die in road crashes each year, and an additional 2.35 million are injured or disabled (Source: ASIRT). These grave statistics demonstrate that while vehicles remain one of the most popular travel options, they can also be incredibly dangerous. Depending on the scenario, car accidents can result in serious penalties, increased insurance costs, expensive medical bills, and (in some situations) criminal records that will stay with you for life.

If you are ever in a car accident in central Missouri, the team at Deputy & Mizell, LLC promises to be here to help you minimize the damages as much as we can. Of course, our clients’ physical safety is the most important thing to us. This week, we’re here to help you stay safe on the roads with these simple but crucial driving safety reminders.

1. When In Doubt, Turn Your Headlights On
Proper visibility is a key component of driving safety. If you have to wonder whether certain situations require headlights, the answer should always be to turn them on. Not only can your headlights help you see your surroundings – they help other drivers see you, too.

2. Keep Children And Pets Contained While Driving.
Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents at the Lake of the Ozarks and many of the surrounding areas. If children and pets are allowed to clamber around in your vehicle while driving, they can easily distract your attention from the road. For everyone’s safety, it is best to always make sure your pets are in carriers and your kids are wearing their seat belts.

3. Pull Over When You Get Tired
When it comes to common causes for auto accidents in Lebanon, MO, drowsy driving is right up there with distracted driving. In fact driving while you’re sleepy can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. If you catch yourself nodding off or having trouble staying focused, pull over and rest.

4. Leave Your Phone In The Backseat
Believe it or not, Missouri is one of the few states that does not have any laws against using your cell phones while driving your personal vehicle – with one exception. Young adults under the age of 21 are not allowed to text while driving. Even if you won’t be breaking any laws, though, we encourage you to keep your focus on the road by leaving your phone out of reach.

5. Keep Your Vehicle Properly Maintained
Safe driving sometimes requires you to react quickly. If your vehicle is not in good shape, it may not respond to your time-sensitive actions. Keep your vehicle properly maintained by getting regular oil changes, checking your brakes frequently, and replacing your tires when they start to wear down.

Contact Deputy & Mizell LLC If You Need Legal Representation
If the worst should happen and you find yourself in a car accident in central Missouri, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced car accident attorneys in Lebanon, Camdenton, or Tuscumbia. We have the experience you need to help get your life back on track. Give us a call at 1-877-532-2191 to schedule your free consultation today.