Even if you are an experienced driver, traveling on highways alongside other fast-moving vehicles can be challenging. Unfortunately, vehicular accidents are not uncommon, and they often result in personal injury cases. Here are some defensive driving techniques that will help you avoid accidents, especially on highways.

How to Drive Safely on Highways

1. Keep Your Distance

Tailgating is risky, especially when you are on the highway. While driving in fast-moving traffic, it's almost certain that you will hit the vehicle in front of you if it suddenly stops. Such accidents can lead to personal injury lawsuits. 

Ideally, the distance between you and the driver ahead should be enough to give you at least three seconds to stop. During inclement weather, roads can be slick, and visibility is poor. You should be more alert and leave more room than usual between you and other cars.

2. Tune Out Distractions

Despite repeated reminders from government agencies, many still find it difficult to resist checking their phones while driving. Remember that reading or sending a text message takes an average of five seconds. This is akin to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. This seemingly short timespan is enough to cause serious accidents, especially when you’re on a highway. As a rule, give the road your undivided attention whenever you're traveling.

3. Check Your Mirrors

Your rearview mirror is vital to safe lane changes, so make it a habit to check it before pulling into another lane. As you signal to turn, check the side you are supposed to merge into. Keep glancing until you are safely on the other lane. 

Also, briefly look at a mirror every five seconds to quickly scan for potential hazards. Often, a personal injury could have been avoidable had the driver been aware of potential dangers from the vehicle's back or side.
 

When you are involved in a personal injury suit because of another driver's negligence, trust Goicoechea, DiGrazia, Coyle, & Stanton in Elko, NV, to provide you with skillful legal representation. The established law firm's attorneys have over a century of combined legal experience and are committed to giving clients personalized attention on civil litigation, estate planning, and business law. Call them today at (775) 738-8091 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to connect with them online.