NC Dept. of Transportation (DOT) Provides Common Sense Tips on Safe Travel

Sometimes, drivers with years of experience are the first ones to get into accidents that are often avoidable. The problem is complacency. Experienced drivers have a great deal of confidence in their abilities to handle their vehicles. That confidence makes them forget basic safety guidelines, particularly at the beginning of seasonal weather changes or when road construction areas pop up during warmer months.

The rules of the road were developed with safety in mind, but few drivers pick up a copy of the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook until they have to re-take the driving test. However, the state offers some easy-to-use safety guidelines that every driver should review frequently.

NC DOT Makes Safety Tips Accessible

The best accident is the one that never happens, even when all conditions point to its inevitability. This is why it is so important to take a little time to regularly review the Safety Tips List provided online by the North Carolina DOT. Even when drivers do not have time to review all information, handy links make it possible to review safety practices for specific hazards, such as the following:

• Driving in winter weather: From preparing vehicles for travel to losing control on snow or ice, the site explains what to expect and what to do. In addition to providing helpful videos, the information also details how the state prepares for such weather.
• Handling wet weather driving: As soon as winter hazards subside, drivers can generally expect a rainy season, which offers equally dangerous conditions. Tips include dealing with flooded roads, what to do for maximum visibility, and handling hydroplaning.
• Driving during Daylight Saving Time (DST): Most drivers would assume that longer daylight hours reduce roadway risks. However, particularly during the first week of DST, people are adjusting to a one-hour loss of sleep. Additionally, daylight driving has its own risks, such as glare and children at play. The tips remind drivers of these and other possible hazards.

Of course, these are just a few examples of tips that can help save lives throughout each year.

Other Information is One Click Away

The safety tips page also provides links to important laws that help keep everyone safe during emergency situations. Everyone should review the information about the Move Over Law that protects emergency workers and the Fender Bender Law that helps keep roadways clear for other drivers.

It is also helpful for drivers to know about the services North Carolina provides in major urban areas — and increasingly in medium-sized urban areas — to keep roadways clear and assist motorists who need help.

When to Seek Legal Assistance

Of course, even drivers who know how to stay safe on the roads cannot control the behavior of other motorists. While it is often possible to prevent accidents caused by others, most people can expect involvement in one or more crashes during lengthy driving careers.

Particularly when accidents cause injuries, victims should consult with a Charlotte car accident lawyer after obtaining medical assistance and before filing an insurance claim. To schedule a free initial consultation to learn all available legal options, call us at 800-948-0577, or use our convenient online contact form.