How To Avoid an Accident While Driving in St. Petersburg, FL
St. Petersburg is a beautiful area with award-winning beaches and numerous attractions, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. However, that also means it’s commonly congested with traffic, leading to tens of thousands of collisions throughout Pinellas County annually.
Taking certain steps can help you avoid these costly and life-altering crashes while driving in and around St. Petersburg. However, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves involved in collisions through little to no fault of their own. If you were injured in St. Petersburg, contact a car accident lawyer for legal guidance, support, and representation.
Here are some specific things you can do to reduce the risk of traffic crashes and keep yourself and others safe.
Never Drive While Distracted in St. Petersburg, FL
Distracted driving is a widespread problem throughout the United States, leading to thousands of fatalities each year. It refers to any action that takes your focus away from driving, including manual, visual, and cognitive distractions.
States have enacted various laws to combat these issues, and Florida is no exception. Under state law, you cannot manually use your phone to text, message, or email while operating a vehicle. However, this doesn’t address other distractions that could cause collisions, such as eating, tending to children, daydreaming, or adjusting the radio.
You should be proactive and avoid anything that diverts your attention from the road. By remaining diligent behind the wheel, you can perceive unexpected hazards and react accordingly, thereby preventing an accident.
Follow the Speed Limit and Slow Down When Necessary
Most people think of speeding as exceeding posted speed limit signs. However, sometimes, traffic or weather conditions warrant you to slow down. In fact, Florida law states that you shouldn’t drive at a speed limit exceeding that which is “reasonable and prudent” given the circumstances.
So, if traffic is congested, the roads are slick, or a heavy fog is impairing your visibility, slow down. Doing so could keep you and others sharing the road safe from rear-end collisions and other traffic accidents.
Never Drive While Tired or Impaired
Most people know you should never get behind the wheel of a car if you’ve been drinking or using drugs. Unfortunately, it’s still a significant problem throughout the U.S., leading to 37 deaths each day.
Impairment behind the wheel can lead to slower reaction times, poor concentration, and reduced hand-eye coordination – all of which can lead to auto accidents. However, did you know that driving while fatigued can have the same effects as drunk driving? That’s why it’s imperative to pull over or have someone else drive if you’re feeling tired.
Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
Sometimes, a motor vehicle accident occurs due to something other than negligence behind the wheel. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be prevented.
For example, you can potentially avoid a crash by:
- Ensuring that your taillights and headlights are in good working order
- Regularly inspecting your tires, ensuring that they’re properly maintained to avoid blowouts and other collisions caused by worn tires
- Replacing your windshield wipers if they become old or worn
- Taking your vehicle for regular maintenance services to a reliable mechanic or dealership
Additionally, don’t ignore any safety recalls regarding your vehicle or its components. Follow the guidance on the notice and get your car inspected for issues that could lead to accidents. If you notice a safety problem, check for recalls or submit a complaint to the NHTSA.
Practicing These Defensive Driving Techniques Can Help You Avoid a Car Accident in St. Petersburg, FL
Remaining attentive behind the wheel can keep you and other drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists safe. However, if you find yourself involved in a collision caused by someone else’s carelessness, contact an experienced St. Petersburg, FL car accident lawyer for assistance.