Las Vegas is a busy city with lots of traffic and distractions that can lead to car crashes. No one expects to get into an accident, but they happen every day. The good news is many accidents can be avoided by driving defensively and staying focused. Here are some important safety tips to avoid a car crash in Las Vegas.
Choose a Safe Vehicle
Bigger vehicles like SUVs and trucks are safer in crashes, but smaller cars are easier to maneuver in city traffic. Make sure the car you are driving has up-to-date safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. Check tires frequently for proper inflation and tread depth. Well-maintained tires can mean the difference between stopping in time or skidding into a crash. Perform regular maintenance like oil changes, inspections, and fluid checks to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents in Las Vegas. Texting, talking on the phone, eating, interacting with passengers and even adjusting music can take your attention away from driving. If you need to do something, pull over safely first. Never take your eyes off the road for more than 2 seconds. Be sure kids are secured properly so they don’t cause distractions. Consider turning your phone to airplane mode or putting it in the glove compartment while driving to avoid temptation.
Don’t Drive Impaired
Driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs (even prescription) or severe lack of sleep dramatically increases accident risk. Arrange for a taxi, rideshare or designated driver if you’ve been drinking. Ask a doctor about potential side effects before taking medications and driving. Get adequate rest before a long trip. Don’t drive if you feel any effects of alcohol or drugs still lingering. It’s better to be safe than risk lives by driving impaired.
Obey Traffic Laws
Running red lights, speeding, illegal turns and other traffic violations make accidents more likely. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination and avoid rushing. Be extra cautious in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, such as the Las Vegas Strip. Yield the right of way when appropriate. Come to complete stops at stop signs and signals to avoid collisions.
Drive Defensively
Assume other drivers will make mistakes and be prepared to react. Keep a safe following distance so you have time to stop. Scan ahead for potential hazards. Avoid blind spots and use turn signals so other drivers can anticipate your moves. Be very cautious at intersections where many accidents happen. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists who may cross your path. Adjust your driving to account for both the traffic conditions and the weather.
Stay Focused
Keep your eyes moving to scan the road and your surroundings. Check mirrors often. Don’t zone out or daydream. If you feel drowsy, pull over for a short nap. Have a passenger handle any navigation duties. Avoid stressful conversations or intense discussions while driving. Stay off your phone and avoid other technology that could draw focus from the road.
Plan Your Route
Use a GPS navigation system to map out your best route and be prepared for heavy traffic areas. Give yourself extra time to account for getting lost or traffic delays. Avoid driving in hazardous weather when possible. Study your route in advance so you know what lanes and exits to take. Be aware of construction zones and detours.
Practice Safety on the Vegas Strip
The Strip is notorious for congested traffic and pedestrians who may walk out in front of you unexpectedly. Drive in the lanes farthest from the sidewalks when possible. Keep an eye out for vehicles stopping suddenly to drop off or pick up passengers. Be extra cautious when making left turns. Get in the correct lane well in advance, watch for pedestrians and be prepared to stop. Drive slowly and be ready to brake.
Stay Calm
Don’t let anger or road rage overcome your better judgment. Take a deep breath and make sure driving safely is your priority, even if others on the road behave poorly. Never retaliate or react to aggressive drivers. Remain calm and focused on defensive driving. If you do find things are getting to you, pull over and take a breather before carrying on.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Above all, never drive impaired. Arrange a safe ride home like a taxi or designated driver if you’ve been drinking. Even one drink can slow reaction time and impair driving ability. The consequences of a DUI aren’t worth the risk. Call a friend or use a rideshare service if you’ve had any alcohol.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Flat tires, stalled vehicles, debris in the road, and other unexpected hazards happen. Be prepared to react calmly. Keep flares or an emergency flashing light kit in your vehicle. If your car breaks down, get safely off the road and call for help right away. Have emergency contacts and the number of a personal injury lawyer Las Vegas programmed in your phone in case of a crash.
Contact Us Today if You’ve Been Involved in a Las Vegas Crash
Las Vegas streets pose many hazards for drivers. Staying focused, avoiding distractions and driving defensively can help prevent an accident. But if one occurs, don’t panic. Try to move to a safe location out of traffic lanes, call 911 if anyone is injured and notify a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer. If the crash involved another vehicle, exchange insurance and driver’s license information. Never admit fault at the scene. Seek medical attention if you experience pain or discomfort. Document the incident with photos of damage and witness statements.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Las Vegas car accident, contact the experienced team at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys. Our compassionate legal team has helped accident victims recover millions of dollars in compensation. Call 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) now for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal options and will fight aggressively to get you the maximum settlement you deserve. Don’t delay – call us today!
