There are six million car collisions in the United States annually. While auto insurance can help protect you financially from these incidents—paying for the cost of damages or medical costs—it’s preferable to avoid severe injuries in the first place. Even if you can't always prevent an accident, you can take certain precautions that can minimize your chances of harm, as the following guide explains.

How to Prevent Injuries During an Auto Accident

1. Wear a Seatbelt

This safety feature locks in place the instant your body moves forward at a sudden rate of speed. This keeps everyone firmly in their seats and reduces the risk of getting thrown from the vehicle. Make sure that the lower strap is flat against your waist. The upper strap should lay diagonally across your chest over the area between your shoulder and your neck.

2. Pay Attention to the Steering Wheel

Think of the steering wheel as a clock face. Your hands should always be at the 10 and two when operating the vehicle. Having both hands on the wheel increases your control, which can help you steer out of the way of an accident. In addition, the center portion of the wheel should be directed at your chest, not your face, in case the airbags need to deploy.

3. Follow Speed Limits

Speed limits are set according to the road conditions and are meant to maintain a safe environment. Therefore, don't exceed them—even if you are in a rush. If you do, not only are the results of a collision going to be proportionally more severe, but you are more likely to be held at fault for the incident and your auto insurance charged. 

4. Install Car Seats

Infants and children who weigh under 35 to 40 pounds should sit in a rear-facing car seat. The combination of position and straps will protect against flying debris and reduce the impact on their bodies in case of a crash. 

If you’re looking to upgrade your car insurance, reach out to David Seagraves Insurance Agency. As a Farmers Insurance® agent, he provides comprehensive solutions for home and auto insurance to residents of Lakewood, CO, and the surrounding regions, tailoring each policy to his clients' needs. Call (720) 588-8002 or go online to request a no-obligation quote. Visit his Facebook page for additional tips on securing the necessary coverage.