Getting behind the wheel of a car to drive to your end destination may not seem like a big deal, but it is something that should be taken seriously in order to reduce your risk of injury. Our personal injury attorneys near Antioch have seen firsthand the devastating effects that car accidents can have on families, so our team strives to provide helpful tools to minimize your risk. Keep the following in mind before you get behind the wheel:

Put the Phone Down

We’ve all been tempted to check our phones or quickly respond to that lingering text while we are behind the wheel. It may not seem like a big deal, but Illinois has laws against using electronic communications devices while you are operating a motor vehicle. The only exception to this rule is when you are reporting an emergency while you are parked on the shoulder of the road. Have your favorite playlist ready to go, press play, and put your phone down while you are driving. 

Scan Ahead

As a general rule of thumb, drivers should be scanning 12 seconds ahead while they are driving. This provides the opportunity to slow down or stop in case traffic patterns aren’t panning out the way you expected. You never know when a car is going to unexpectedly stop or swerve, so creating a cushion for yourself is always ideal. 

Perform Regular Vehicle Maintenance

Taking care of your vehicle plays an important role in staying safe on the road. You want your car to be reliable regardless of the situation, so make sure your oil is changed regularly and you’re checking on your tires. 

For more tips on safely navigating the roads, don’t hesitate to reach out to our personal injury attorneys in Antioch today.