Teen drivers are more likely to speed, drive while distracted and engage in other risky behaviors while traveling on California roads. However, if properly educated, drivers of any age can reduce their risk of taking actions that might lead to a motor vehicle accident. Furthermore, teen drivers who drive safely may also be less likely to receive traffic citations that might jeopardize their ability to retain their licenses.
Don’t ignore signs of damage
Prior to leaving home each day, you should take a minute to inspect your car for damage. If you notice a flat tire, a chipped windshield or other potential issues, take the car to a professional to be inspected and fixed. In some cases, you may be able to resolve the issue by inflating a tire at home or replacing parts such as a headlight or windshield wiper. If a warning light appears on your dashboard, you should have the car inspected as quickly as possible. Doing so may prevent your brakes from going out or making it difficult to see at night, which could increase your risk of a motor vehicle accident.
Don’t panic
It may start to rain or snow with little or no warning, resulting in reduced visibility and poor road conditions. You may also feel uneasy after missing a freeway exit or making a wrong turn while driving to work or school. If you start to panic, pull to the side of the road or into a grocery store parking lot. At that point, you can collect your thoughts and wait until you are ready to focus on road conditions again. If necessary, you can ask for directions or use your phone to help guide you back to where you need to go.
If you are involved in a car wreck caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. You may use witness statements, photos or other lines of evidence to prove that the defendant’s irresponsible behavior caused the crash to happen.