As vigilant as we try to be on the road, car accidents can still happen. While a lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim and get compensation for any damages you sustain due to someone else’s negligence, it’s better to minimize the severity of your injuries in the first place. This starts by taking the steps below.

How to Lower Your Risk of Injury in an Accident

1. Keep Your Eyes on the Road

According to the CDC’s report on motor vehicle safety, 1,000 people suffer serious injuries in distracted driving accidents on a daily basis. By paying closer attention to the road, you can reduce the likelihood that you’ll be among those injured in this type of accident. 

2. Change the Steering Wheel’s Position

It’s common practice to tilt the steering wheel up towards the driver’s face. This is actually the wrong way to set the steering wheel and it can result in serious injuries to the face and neck. The airbag will deploy with a great deal of force in a collision, so it’s better to have the steering wheel facing your chest. This will cause the brunt of that force to meet your chest, which is better protected by the bones in your chest and your ribs.

3. Fasten Your Seat Belts 

Failing to wear a seat belt can cause you to be thrown from your vehicle in a serious car crash. This makes it more likely that you’ll be killed in the accident or, at the very least, be seriously injured.

Additionally, failing to wear your seat belt can make it harder for your personal injury attorney to get you the compensation you may need. A court may determine that your failure to wear your seat belt contributed to your injuries and that will limit how much you can seek in damages.

4. Adjust Your Seat

As the driver, you should be as comfortable as possible and be able to reach all of the controls in the vehicle. Before getting on the road, adjust the height and location of the seat to ensure your feet can reach all of the pedals. Also, make sure you adjust the mirrors to maximize your visibility and reduce blind spots. This will help you drive more safely and you’ll have quicker reaction times if you do come across a road hazard.

If you are injured in an auto accident, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you obtain a fair settlement for damages. Riggs, Ellsworth & Porter, PLC provides representation for injury claims in the Show Low, Snowflake, and Eager areas of Arizona. To schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (928) 537-3228.