Tips For Preventing Lane Change Accidents
When changing lanes, drivers must be careful. Changing lanes incorrectly or dangerously can result in serious accidents. Unfortunately, lane change accidents are quite common in the United States of America. From blind spots to failing to signal, several factors contribute to lane change accidents. It is crucial for all motorists to understand the importance of exercising caution before changing lanes.
At The Pendas Law Firm, we have seen countless accidents which were caused by negligent drivers who changed lanes incorrectly or dangerously. The results of such behavior can be devastating. In this article, we share some tips for preventing lane change accidents.
Tip #1: Check Your Mirrors
Before switching lanes, you should check your rearview and side mirrors thoroughly. Checking your mirrors can allow you to understand where other vehicles are and alert you to drivers traveling faster than other traffic. It can allow you to confirm whether there is enough space for you to make a lane change. However, you need to keep in mind that mirrors can distort images and distances. You should look properly and ensure you understand what you see.
Tip #2: Signal the Lane Change
One of the most common causes of lane change accidents is failure to signal. It is vital that you inform other road users of your intention to change lanes before proceeding to change lanes. When you signal, you allow other motorists to adjust their driving. For example, when you signal that you want to change lanes, you allow other drivers to give you space to do so.
So for how long should you signal? According to Florida Statute 316.155, any driver making a turn, including changing lanes, must give a signal of intention to turn for at least 100 feet before making the turn. This can be equated to the length of six cars lined up bumper to bumper.
Tip #3: Check Blind Spots
Many accidents happen because motorists fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes. It is crucial that you check your blind spots before making a lane change. A blind spot is an area where you can only see by looking over your shoulder.
Tip #4: Leave More Space
Before making a lane change, ensure you leave enough room. You need to leave a gap between you and the other vehicle that is big enough for them to stop behind you safely. By not leaving enough space, you deprive the other vehicle of a safe stopping distance in case of an emergency.
Tip #5: Keep Two Hands on the Wheel
Finally, when changing lanes, avoid using one hand. Use the 10 and 2 or 9 and 3 position, depending on which is better for you. When you have both hands on the wheel, it is easier for you to react in case of an emergency.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you get involved in a lane change accident because of another party’s fault, contact our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. We can help ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries and damages.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Ocala, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Melbourne, and Naples areas.
Source:
nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/811147.pdf
