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THREE WAYS TO AVOID BEING IN A CAR CRASH ON A LONG COMMUTE

On Behalf of | Mar 15, 2019 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

A long commute to work and a long commute home can be exhausting, even when a great job makes your commute worth doing every day. However, as you get familiar with your route, you may become less attentive as a driver, which can lead to being involved in a car crash that causes serious injuries to you or others on the road. To prevent being in a crash, consider how you can prepare for a better commute, what you need to do to avoid driving distractions and how you can avoid speeding.

Prepare for your commute

To help ensure your safety on the road, you may need to take some actions to adequately prepare for your long commute. This may involve getting up earlier to make sure you have time to eat a good breakfast and avoid morning traffic congestion. It may mean stashing a pair of comfy shoes in your car for driving, so you can switch out of your dress shoes, which can sometimes affect your ability to control your car. You may also consider stashing a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle to help shield against harsh sunlight. Consider what might make your commute a little safer because often these tasks do not take much time or effort to prepare.

Stay focused on the road

Distracted driving causes thousands of deaths every year, and with your long commute, you may be more tempted than other drivers to engage in these risky behaviors. Consider making a policy to avoid talking on the phone, texting, emailing, eating, drinking or smoking in your vehicle. Try to avoid anything that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel or mind off driving.

Sometimes listening to audiobooks, music or news can keep your mind from wanderingduring a long drive. However, material that makes you emotional or that causes you to daydream should be avoided. Also, changing CDs or radio stations can be distracting, so consider presetting your favorite radio stations and switching CDs before you begin your drive.

Drive the speed limit

Speeding and aggressive driving also cause numerous car crashes every year. The faster you drive, the less time you have to react appropriately. You will have a more difficult time avoiding potholes, other vehicles and even pedestrians. To avoid the temptation to speed, make sure to give yourself enough time to safely complete your commute.

Long hours in the car can lead to careless driving habits, which can endanger you and everyone else who shares the roadway. To avoid potential crashes, consider how you can best prepare for your commute, stay focused on the road and avoid the temptation to speed. If you have already been injured in a serious crash during your long commute, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical expenses and other costs associated with your injury.