Few things in life can be more stressful than an auto accident. From the collision itself to dealing with car repairs and hospital bills, this is something you should try to avoid at all costs. To help you stay safe on the road, the collision repair team at Whitesell Collision in Waynesboro, VA, notes that a few key driving practices can make all the difference.

Practice the following safe driving practices to avoid an auto accident:

• Safe Following Distance: Always maintain a safe following distance and avoid tailgating other drivers. This way, you’ll be better prepared to avoid an accident during sudden braking situations.
• Check Mirrors: A large percentage of auto accidents occur while turning or changing lanes. Always check your rear and side view mirrors before making one of these maneuvers, and pay careful attention to your blind spots.
• Eliminate Distractions: From blasting the radio and eating a hamburger to texting your friends, there are countless distractions that can keep you from giving your full attention to the road. Even a split second of distraction could cause you to get into an accident requiring extensive collision repair work.
• Drive Defensively: It can be tempting to let yourself get angry while driving, especially if someone else cuts you off in heavy traffic. Don’t retaliate because your decision could lead to an accident.
• Maintenance: From oil changes to routine maintenance inspections, the more you do to take care of your car, the less likely you are to experience a sudden breakdown. Always be prepared so you don’t have any unexpected mechanical issues, which could cause dangerous problems on the road.

Should you ever find yourself in need of collision repair work, the team at Whitesell Collision will be able to help you with their friendly, dependable service. To learn more about the services offered by this auto body shop or to request a free estimate, visit them online or call (540) 943-3361.