The Ohio State Highway Patrol recently confirmed that a four-vehicle accident resulted in the death of a man in Alliance. The accident occurred when a driver entered the eastbound lane to pass a second vehicle. The first vehicle then collided with a third vehicle, which was traveling in the opposite direction. The first vehicle then collided with the second vehicle and forced it off the road and into a ditch. A fourth vehicle later collided with the first vehicle. As a result of this accident, one driver died. All four drivers in the accident were wearing their seat belts. Law enforcement has also stated that neither alcohol nor drugs are believed to have played a factor in the accident.
Statistics compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal that lane changes are one of the leading causes of car accidents. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are serious and involve either life-changing injuries or fatalities. By following the steps listed below, you can greatly reduce your chances of being harmed in a lane change accident.
Monitor Your Blind Spot
It is not a good idea to rely only on your rearview mirrors when changing lanes. Instead, it is best to check your blind spots by looking behind you to make sure there are no other vehicles that may be in your path. If you change lanes while a vehicle is in your blind spot, you can end up in a deadly accident.
Be Sure to Signal
Changing lanes without signaling is a dangerous type of driving pattern. If you plan to change lanes, you should make sure to signify a lane change. This is the only way other motorists on the road know that you intend to change lanes.
Never Pass on the Right
Attempting to pass a person on the right is almost always a dangerous driving pattern. This greatly increases the chances of a collision, even if a vehicle in the left lane is traveling slower than it should.
Keep Both Hands on the Wheel
Many drivers have gotten into the habit of keeping one hand on the wheel, which can be deadly. Instead, it is a better to place the hands in either the 9 and 3 positions or 10 and 2, based on the most comfortable choice. This way, you will be able to respond more quickly in case someone near you attempts to merge lanes without looking.
Injured In a Lane Change Accident? Call Me
The above safety tips should greatly reduce your chances of ending up in a lane change accident, but there is always a chance that these accidents may will occur regardless. If you or a loved one is injured in a lane change accident, promptly speak with an experienced accident attorney.
Call me today. I understand just how challenging the aftermath of a car accident can be. While you focus on your recovery, I’ll Make Them Pay!®.
