With summer in full swing, many Baltimore County residents will be heading to vacation destinations to spend some time in the sun. HomeAway, a site that connects travelers and homeowners for accommodations sharing, recently reported on the Top 10 Maryland Vacation Spots that will attract many visitors from near and far. Those who will be driving to such area hot spots as Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis, and Ocean City will no doubt experience high levels of traffic and congestion, which tends to increase the number of car accidents in Maryland. Here is what you can do to stay safe while on the road.
- Do Not Drink and Drive: Probably the most obvious advice is to avoid using alcohol and driving. You risk being charged with DUI for a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher or DWI if your BAC is .04 to .079%. Both offenses carry considerable penalties and can ruin your summer plans. The potential for being involved in a car accident increases if you are drunk driving, so stay sober for safety’s sake.
- Avoid Using the Phone While Driving: Many drivers assume that a quick glance at their cell phone does not present a real danger, but statistics prove otherwise. If you are traveling at 55 mph and grab your phone to shoot off a text, you will travel the length of a football field in just five seconds. With your eyes off the road for that long, your chances of being in accident shoot sky high.
- Switch Drivers and Stay Fresh: Even after a full night’s sleep, a motorist can become fatigued after spending just a few hours behind the wheel. If you have another licensed driver along on the trip, switch things up every two to three hours; if not, make time for breaks to stretch your legs and rejuvenate.
- Use Caution in Hazardous Weather: Downpours are common in the Maryland summer months, making the roads slippery and hazardous. Plus, your visibility suffers in particularly severe weather. Watch your speed and allow extra space between your vehicle and the car in front of you.
- Drive Defensively: While you may take each of the above tips seriously, not all drivers on the road will follow suit. That means there is always the possibility that you will come across a drunk driver, texting motorist, person suffering from fatigue, or someone driving too fast in the rain. When you practice defensive driving, you can avoid these hazards and keep everyone in the vehicle safe. Keep your eyes out for what others are doing and expect the unexpected.
These tips should be helpful as you head out on summer vacation in Maryland, but unfortunately, car accidents still happen despite the highest degree of care while driving. When they do and you suffer injuries, it is important to retain a skilled car accident attorney to represent your interests. You are entitled to compensation for your losses, and a lawyer can help you obtain the amount you deserve under the law. If you are involved in a car accident and have questions about your options, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to discuss your case.
See Related Blog Posts:
