Safe Driving Tips For The Coronavirus Quarantine And Beyond 2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting quarantine, we must take extra caution to avoid motor vehicle since any need for medical treatment will compromise, and be compromised by, the treatment demands caused by the coronavirus in our local hospitals.

The following safe driving habits may help anyone become a safer driver in 2020:

• Regularly maintain your motor vehicle. Make necessary repairs expediently. Regular maintenance and repair reduce the risk of breakdowns and other automobile malfunctions. In the event of a breakdown, make sure you have an emergency kit containing a flashlight, water, reflectors, and other necessary items.
• Make sure you and all passengers are always wearing a safety belt when the motor vehicle is moving or even if stopped on the side of the road exposed to oncoming traffic. Airbags operate based on the assumption that passengers are stationary and wearing a safety belt. Otherwise, passengers will likely not be in a position where the airbag can offer any protection.
• Plan ahead, know your route and be aware of the weather forecasted for the duration of your trip. Relying solely on a navigation system like GPS should not be your only source of reference as some locations may not provide strong enough reception for the system to consistently and effectively operate. Paper roadmaps should not be considered a tool of the past and can ensure that you safely arrive at your intended destination without getting lost.
• Avoid distractions and other impairments. Mobile phones should only be used in emergencies. If you must make a call or text, pull over to the side of the road before doing so. Talking with hands-free devices may also provide a distraction since you are not paying exclusive attention to the task at hand, driving.
• Keep an assured safe distance from the motor vehicle or motorcycle in front of you. Many drivers tailgate because they are in a hurry and foolishly believe that doing so will expedite their arrival. Give yourself some room for error to avoid a rear-end collision.
• Do not exceed the speed limit. Do not drive at an excessive speed in the right lane where another vehicle may suddenly turn in front of you onto the road.
• Make sure that you reduce your speed in wet, foggy, or inclement weather. Wet roads reduce a motor vehicle’s capability to grip the road surface. Speed should be reduced from five to ten mph in these conditions.
• Do not drive erratically. For example, do not weave through traffic at a speed exceeding the speed limit. Always use your turn signals, whether changing lanes or turning, even if there is no one behind you. There still may be a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist approaching from another direction who might be in danger otherwise. 
• If taking a trip that takes two or more hours to complete, take a break. For longer trips, take regular breaks. Stop when and where possible to take a nap If you feel drowsy.

Powell Law attorneys have unmatched experience assisting individuals who have suffered damages caused by the negligence of others. With our experience, we have unique abilities to help our clients through every type of personal injury case. Powell Law’s unsurpassed qualifications make it an obvious choice for representation in all types of personal injury and medical malpractice cases in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas. Contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777 or visit us online. Call now for a FREE case evaluation. You don’t pay unless we win!