What is an accident? By definition, it is “an undesirable or unfortunate happening that occurs unintentionally and usually results in harm, 
injury, damage, or loss; casualty; mishap.” Another definition is: (law) “such a happening resulting in injury that is in no way the fault of the injured person for which compensation or indemnity is legally sought.”
The State of Florida changed their reports years ago from “accident reports” to “crash reports” we assume because law enforcement does not want to be as involved in determining fault for a crash, and it is usually better for that to be resolved in a court of law.
Whatever you call them, accidents or crashes, they’re both bad and should be avoided. Some feel there’s not much you can do about avoiding an accident, but we know that to be untrue. In fact, here are five things you can do to significantly reduce your chances of being in an accident.
- Always keep one hand on the steering wheel. You should really keep both hands on the wheel, but if you have to change the radio station, please don’t let go with the other hand. Very dangerous, and you would be surprised how often some people do this.
- Watch for red light runners. When your light turns green, count to three before you enter the intersection and look both ways. Never assume someone is going to stop at a red light or stop sign. Use caution always.
- Never tailgate. Remember the faster you are traveling, the more space you need to leave between your car and the car ahead of you.
- Back up slowly and carefully. Use your mirrors, but it’s a good idea to turn around and really look carefully for other cars and pedestrians when you back up. In parking lots, people with shopping carts will assume you see them and so they’ll just move right into your path. Take your time, it’s not a race.
- Finally, probably the most important tip to avoid an accident is to never text when you’re driving. Just put the phone down and don’t even think about it. If it beeps or rings, deal with it when you’ve arrived at your destination. Nothing is worth taking your eyes off the road.
Fort Lauderdale Accident Attorneys
We have been helping people injured in accidents across south Florida for over 20 years, and we find that almost every crash was preventable. Please be careful, but if you are injured in a crash it’s important to have someone on your side who can determine the cause and help you get the help you need to pay for medical bills, lost time from work, damages, and your pain and suffering. We work very hard for our clients and we’ve earned an excellent reputation for doing so. Reach out to us by calling 954-356-0006 if you would like to have a conversation.
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