3 Tips for New Drivers to Avoid an Auto Accident Denver
It can be intimidating to be a new driver. From laws to lanes—there is a lot to pay attention to on the road. There are also many distractions too that can lead to an auto accident Denver. It is best to be aware and avoid all distractions to ensure your safety, as well as all the safety of your fellow drivers.
Put Down the Phone and Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is one of the top leading causes of accidents among new drivers. When you take your attention away from the wheel for even just a half of second, much can happen. According to Distraction.gov’s “Facts and Statistics,” 10 percent of drivers between the ages of 15 and 19 were involved in a fatal crash due to distracted driving. Also, according to Decide to Drive, those who text and drive are 23 times more likely to cause an auto accident. But using a phone is not the only way to be distracted. It also entails eating, drinking, changing music channels, talking with passengers, adjusting for comfort and more. It is important to be prepared before putting the vehicle in gear. When driving, ensure that your only task during the duration of the distance is dedicated to the drive and the drive only. While you may think the odds are low that an accident can happen to you, it certainly can happen. Learn more at Decide to Drive’s Driving Tips Wreck-less Checklist.
Practice Defensive Driving: When driving, whether somewhere local or a far distance, it is critical to constantly being conscious of the other drivers. This is called “defensive driving.” A multitude of scenarios can happen, which is why it is important to avoid distractions and pay attention of others on the road, road or weather conditions, etc. Never make assumptions of other drivers and be prepared to make quick and safe changes to other’s reactions. You can do this by paying attention to everything ahead of you, on the sides of you and in your rearview. The more you practice driving, the easier this will become. However, with practice comes comfort. As you become a seasoned driver, do not allow yourself to get too comfortable at the wheel and always have your guard up.
Follow the Laws of the Road: The laws of the road are there to protect you. In addition to everything in the Colorado Driver Handbook, teens and new drivers have their own rules. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Teen Driving Restrictions, upon getting a new license, teens are not allowed to have passengers under the age of 21 without a parent or adult with a license also in the vehicle. Also, drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving and for the first year of driving, teens are not allowed to be on the roads between midnight and 5 a.m.
As a new driver—welcome to the road! As you embark on this new accomplishment of your life, remember that Mark A. Simon, attorney at law, is your go-to law office! Be sure to read our article “FAQs after an Auto Accident in Denver” and if you find yourself victim in an accident, we can help. Our premier services will provide the quality service you need. Stay safe out there and be sure to keep our number in your phone and give us a call in case you are in an accident.