Approximately 3,700 people around the globe die on the roads daily. It is easy to think that the people that die on the road are reckless.
But the truth is it can happen to anybody, even to the most rule-abiding driver, because not every person will abide by the rules. At other times conditions outside anyone’s control could cause an accident.
While you may not eliminate every chance of an accident, identifying critical road hazards can help you stay safe while on the road. This guide highlights key hazards you are likely to encounter on the road and how to avoid them.
Accidents do not just happen; often, they happen because someone was negligent. It doesn’t always have to be another driver; it could be the vehicle manufacturer, a faulty part manufacturer, the road engineer, or the government entity that approved the road that caused the accident.
Under personal injury law, the at-fault party is often liable for the accident, meaning you may be eligible for compensation if an accident is not your fault. Being eligible for compensation doesn’t mean it will come easy.
The defendant or their insurer will go to any lengths to minimize the value of your claim or even deny it, blaming you. Having an experienced car accident attorney can help you deal with problematic defendants or insurance companies and ensure you get the rightful compensation.
Environmental hazards are largely out of the driver’s control and involve environmental factors such as rain, snow, sun glares, strong winds, mists, and fog.
While there may be no way of controlling what nature throws at you, understanding these hazards and how to drive safely can mean the difference between getting to your destination safely or getting into an accident.
If an accident occurs under adverse weather conditions, the driver will still be liable for the accident. The law requires motorists to drive their vehicles at a reasonable speed depending on the conditions.
This makes reducing your speed below the posted speed limit the number one rule when faced with an adverse environmental condition.
Physical hazards include any physical feature or objects that could cause an accident, such as sharp bends, unmarked speed bumps, falling debris or rocks, or potholes.
Physical hazards are especially dangerous if you are driving on an unfamiliar road. Thankfully, modern technology can help you navigate unfamiliar roads and even notify you of possible hazards such as a sharp bend or falling rocks which can help you drive safely.
Different entities can have liability for an accident caused by physical hazards. If the faulty road design is the cause of the accident, your lawyer can help file a product liability against the contractor or the government entity responsible for approving roads.
Anybody can get on the road, including an unqualified driver, a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or one going through a lot in their mind.
All these types of motorists pose a big threat to other road users. You can control what other drivers do but staying vigilant can help you avoid reckless drivers.
Signs that can help you identify a reckless driver would be erratic acceleration and braking, weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, using a phone while driving, erratic honking, and issues staying centered on the lane while driving.
Identifying road hazards is the first step towards safe driving. The list of hazards mentioned above covers most of the hazards you may experience on the road.
While it may not be conclusive, if you are careful when navigating them, your chances of getting into an accident can be significantly reduced.
