Michigan car accident lawyer reminds you how to best protect yourself and your family on the road this holiday
Our car accident lawyers want you to have a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday. Below are some helpful driving tips (reminders) to protect you and your family:
1. Don’t drink and drive. We all know that fourth of July cookouts, fireworks and parties are ripe with beer and liquor. If you’re drinking this holiday, call a designated driver or a cab. Remember, drinking and driving injury accidents in Michigan occur most in the summer.
2. Don’t text and drive. People who are texting and driving are 23 percent more likely to get into a car accident. If you need to talk on the phone or text, pull over. And also avoid other distractions, such as going on the Internet (yes, people even use their iPads while driving) and eating. Read about 10 foods to avoid while driving.
3. Check the basics – tires, lights, battery. Before your road trip, make sure your battery has enough juice. If it has been years since you replaced your car battery, consider changing it before you leave. Check your headlights, tail lights and turn signals. And check your tire pressure. Low tire levels can reduce fuel efficiency, and they are a safety issue. Also make sure to have jumper cables in the trunk.
4. Pack a first aid kit and roadside assistance kit. Know your roadside assistance phone number in case you break down and need help. Think about packing a cooler of water and a flash light.
5. Pack proof of auto insurance. Always have your proof of car insurance in your glove box. It’s also a good idea to keep a camera and something to write with in the car, just in case an accident occurs. Here’s a list of what to do at the auto accident scene.
6. Plan for construction zones. Visit the Michigan Department of Transportation website before your road trip, and research the construction areas in Michigan. This can make for a safer and shorter trip. Also, be aware that the speed limit in construction zones is 45 miles an hour when workers are present. Here are some Michigan construction zone safe driving tips.
7. Watch your speed. State and local police officers will be out in full force this week. Watch the speed limits and keep a safe traveling distance from the cars in front of you.
8. Avoid home fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous and unpredictable. It’s best to leave fourth of July fireworks to the experts, to avoid personal injury.
9. Two important points when renting a car. Make sure you buy the extra insurance offered by the rental car company, and always choose a rental car with Michigan plates. You want to be covered with the most comprehensive auto insurance, should you be injured in a car accident.
10. Buckle up and make sure car seats are secured properly. Wearing seat belts at all times is one of the best way to protect yourself and your family in case of a serious car accident or truck accident. If you are traveling with infants or children, make sure they are secured properly in their car seats or booster seats.
If you’ve been in a car accident and need help now, feel free to call one of our accident lawyers at (248) 353-7575. There’s no cost or obligation.
– Steven M. Gursten, partner of Michigan Auto Law, is recognized as one of the nation’s top car accident lawyers handling serious automobile injury cases. He frequently blogs about safe driving and is available for comment.
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by melgupta
More resources to protect yourself:
I’ve been in a car accident in Michigan – Now what do I do?
What to know when renting cars in Michigan
Michigan Auto Law is the largest law firm exclusively handling car accident, truck accident and motorcycle accident cases throughout the entire state. We have offices in Farmington Hills, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Sterling Heights to better serve you. Call (248) 353-7575 for a free consultation with a car accident lawyer.
