The summer months often see an increase in the number of accidents that take place on Virginia roads and highways. This is typically because there are more people driving during this time of year, and it is also because younger drivers tend to travel more often while on an extended break from school. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to minimize your risk of an accident during this time of the year.
Make sure that your car is properly maintained
Cleaning your vehicle’s windshield can minimize the amount of sun glare that you’ll deal with while traveling later at night. Properly inflating your car’s tires can reduce the risk that they pop or shred while traveling on a busy highway. Finally, be sure to change the oil to protect the engine from overheating or from experiencing other types of damage.
Keep distractions to a minimum
Even on relatively quiet roads, a vehicle could unexpectedly make its way into your lane. If your eyes aren’t focused on the road, you may not notice that anything is wrong before a motor vehicle accident occurs. Therefore, it’s important to resist the urge to use your cellphone, talk to passengers or take other actions that might take your focus away from what’s going on outside of your vehicle.
Don’t drive while impaired
Driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other substance may hinder your ability to maintain your lane or adhere to other traffic laws. It’s worth noting that you can be charged with DUI even if you are impaired by medication that was legally prescribed to you.
If you are involved in a crash caused by an impaired, fatigued or distracted driver, you may be entitled to a financial award. It may be possible to use witness statements, videos or other evidence to prove that the accident was caused by the reckless actions of the defendant.