As you get behind the wheel each day to commute to work or pick up groceries, you know that your driving habits play a prominent role in your safety. While you might not be able to control the weather or other drivers, you can do your best to drive responsibly. Here’s some advice on how to avoid a collision and the resulting car insurance claim.

Do:

Modify your following distance.

As a general rule of thumb, you should always keep at least three to four seconds of stopping time between you and the vehicle in front of you. Following too closely behind will not give you enough time to come to a quick halt if necessary. When it’s raining, snowing, or foggy, increase the distance to six seconds.

Buckle up.

Not all car accidents are preventable, and if you happen to get into one, you’ll be grateful for wearing a seat belt. Even though driving without buckling up is illegal in most states, some drivers still forgo this safety precaution when traveling short distances. However, the belt may keep you from being ejected from the seat and breaking the windshield during an accident.

Don’t: 

Get distracted. 

These days, it's all too easy to be distracted by your electronic devices, whether you're waiting on an email or trying to skip a song. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of auto accidents. To avoid a road incident, keep your device stashed in the console or glove compartment while you're traveling. Hang up and drive!

Drive without car insurance.

With the right car insurance policy, you won't have to worry about paying out of pocket after an accident. Your policy should cover both damage to your car and the other driver’s vehicle, as well as associated medical expenses. Without insurance, you could face serious penalties, such as a driver's license suspension and large bills to pay for damages to someone else.

If you're looking for a comprehensive car insurance policy that will protect you in the event of a collision, turn to K.L. Smith Agency LLC of Willimantic, CT. Since 1956, this family-owned and -operated agency has been offering a wide array of policies to area residents and business owners. From home and health to RV and car insurance, you can find the policy that meets your needs. To learn more about their auto insurance, visit their website or call (860) 423-9294 for a free, no-obligation quote.