Everyday drivers face a lot of distractions while they travel down the road. From cell phones, to snacks, to roadway obstructions— keeping your eyes and focus on the road can be a hard thing to do. But one distraction drivers may not take into consideration, is that of accidents in, or on the side of, the road. How often do you notice someone taking the time to check out the scene as they are passing accidents? How many times have you done this same thing?
Chances are, more often than not, you slow down slightly and glance to assess the damage. But, you might be putting yourself and others into danger. You’re curious— it’s a human response. Maybe, your motive was even checking to see if they’ve received help yet. However, as ironic as it may seem, looking at accidents can potentially cause another crash. For this reason, practice these safety tips we’ve posted below when passing an accident.
Passing Accidents Safely: Tips for Driving Smart
1. Look, Don’t Stare
When passing a crash it may seem temping to stare. It’s not everyday that you come across something like this. Take a quick glance if you must. Make sure they have the help they need. Then, move along. Don’t decrease your speed to check out the scene. An accident can happen in those two seconds you take to look away from the road. At the very most, call 911 and report the accident and it’s location as you continue on your way.
2. Slow down a bit as a safety precaution
Be sure to slow down. In most cases, traffic will be moving slower or stopping. Therefore, it is a good idea to slow your role just a bit when you notice a collision. However, make sure to keep the pace of traffic.. For instance, if the wreck is on the opposite side of the highway, do not begin slowing down or coming to a stop. This may cause a danger in traffic, as you slow down and other drivers do not. The main objective here is that there might be roadway obstructions. There is no telling what might end up in the roadway following a crash. Keep an eye on what traffic is doing. If everyone is swerving around one spot— expect there to be an obstruction. Which leads us to our next point…
3. Drive Defensively
Lastly, remember that chances are if you are looking at the wreck, other drivers are too. In that case, they may be focusing on the accident instead of the road or your vehicle. Therefore, you must be on alert for drivers that are not paying attention. Always use your signals and double check blind spots before making a move on the road. Follow what traffic is doing. Protect yourself, and stay alert. There’s no telling what people will do, and what might be in the road, following an accident. Passing accidents safely is routed in defensive driving. You have to protect yourself when surrounded by chaos on the roadway.