Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is launching a Safe Summer Driving campaign, aimed at urging motorists to practice safe driving habits and reduce the risk of being involved in a serious or fatal car accident.
Our Chicago accident lawyers continue to report on the large number of Illinois car accidents caused by distracted driving, drunk driving, aggressive driving, speeding and other poor driving choices. Sometimes being in an accident is unavoidable. But doing your part and discussing safe driving with your family can go a long way toward ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable summer driving season.Distracted Driving: Each year an estimated 6,000 people are killed and more than 500,000 are seriously injured in traffic accidents caused by distracted driving. Text messaging and talking on the cell phone are two of the most dangerous practices. Other forms of driver distraction include eating, grooming, talking to passengers or using in-car technologies, such as GPS systems or Mp3 players.
Teen Drivers: As we report often, traffic accidents are the number one cause of death among teenagers ages 15 to 20. In fact, they are the number one cause of death for all children over the age of 3. However, teenagers are at high risk because of the freedom and independence that come with summer driving with friends. If you have not shared with your teen the graphic public service video we posted on our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, please do so and speak with them about the dangers of distracted driving.
Tire Inflation & Vehicle Maintenance: The hot summer weather and worn or underinflated tires can be a deadly combination. Motorists should have their vehicle serviced and make sure their tires are in good repair. We continue to report cases of motorists being struck and killed on the freeway while attempting to change a tire or walk for help. Visit SafeCar.gov for more information on tire safety.
Top Summer Safety Tips:
-Never leave a child unattended in or near a vehicle. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly and quickly approach lethal levels. Adults should also pay close attention to children when moving or backing a vehicle.
-Always utilize the proper child restraints for children. For more information visit www.safecar.gov.
-Buckle up. It’s the law.
-Don’t drink and drive.
-Avoid fatigue and reduce stress. Drivers should get plenty of rest and leave in plenty of time to reach their destination.
-Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Make sure windshield wipers, lights and other equipment are functioning properly.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.