As we begin the New Year, there are many resolutions to consider. At Palmisano & Goodman, P.A., as Woodbridge car accident attorneys, we work with people who have been catastrophically injured in car accidents every day. Some of these the accidents could have been avoided had the drivers only choose to rethink their driving habits. With the CDC reporting over 1 million Americans spending over 1 million days in the hospital every year from crash injuries, making safer driving your New Year’s resolution could save lives.
Below are some New Year’s resolutions you can make this year to keep New Jersey’s roads safer.
1. Stop Using Your Phone
We’ve all checked a text message or emails while at a red light or made a quick phone call while driving. The only reason using your phone while you drive seems like it’s not a big deal is because you haven’t been in a car accident because of it yet. Studies have shown even talking on a hands-free device can be distracting while driving. With so many people losing their lives on the road due to distracted driving, it makes sense to make an effort to stop texting and driving.
2. Remember to Look for Pedestrians
As more reports are published showing an increasing number of pedestrian and bicycle injuries each year, making a commitment to looking out for pedestrians and bike traffic is something we can all get behind. Pedestrians and bicyclists have the same rights on the road as motorists. You can help prevent injuries by making sure to look over your shoulder before changing lanes and always coming to a full and complete stop before making a right turn at an intersection.
3. Don’t Drink & Drive
Drinking and driving is one of the main causes of fatalities on the road. This year, if you are planning to drink at a friend’s house, a bar, or another event, make sure you leave the house with a plan. Choose a friend to be your designated driver for the night and offer to buy him or her non-alcoholic beverages. Check the area you’ll be drinking in and see if rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are available.
We at Palmisano & Goodman, P.A. hope you have a safe and happy 2017! If you have been injured in an accident due to a negligent driver, contact our Woodbridge car accident lawyer today for a free consultation. (732) 709-4400