Over 30,000 people died from motor vehicle accidents each year in the U.S. alone. According to a 2014 study, the estimated cost of car accidents is $871 billion dollars. It’s important that drivers check their surroundings while on the road to ensure the safety of all passengers and motorists. Following these three tips will decrease the likelihood of car accidents and keep everyone safe. 3 Tips That Help Prevent Car Accidents

Always Wear a Seatbelt

The first thing you should do before starting your car is to buckle up. The proper way to wear a seatbelt is to secure the strap around your shoulder and lock the buckle in place, with part of the belt secured around your waist to prevent the fatal impact of being thrown into an airbag. If you have children, tell them about the need to wear a seatbelt and make sure they’re buckled up before starting the engine.

Avoid Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence is not only unwise, but also against the law. No matter how much alcohol is in your system, it’s better to take a taxi or have a friend drive than taking on the risk yourself. If caught, a court could order you to pay a fine and compensate collision repair Fort Worth TX costs if an impact vehicle was involved in an accident. Driving drunk at night is dangerous and should be avoided.

Watch for Blind Spots

While driving, you should check your front and side mirrors before changing lanes or entering an intersection. Turn your head to check incoming cars if you’re waiting to make a turn. There are some vehicles out of your periphery you shouldn’t ignore, because pulling in front of an incoming vehicle will cause aggravation and could potentially lead to an accident.

By practicing defensive driving, motorists are able to exercise good judgment and follow traffic regulations to avoid common safety hazards. Keeping these tips in mind will reduce your chance of colliding with another vehicle, preventing financial burden and saving your life.