Learning the Smith System of Defensive Driving Can Prevent Albuquerque Trucking Accidents and Save Your Life!
It is often said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And when it comes to avoiding motor vehicle accidents, particularly trucking accidents, that statement could not be more applicable. Preventing a motor vehicle accident in the first place is the best way to keep you and your loved ones safe. When it comes to trucking accidents, you may not get a second chance due to the sheer size and power these types of vehicles have.
Here at the Mark Caruso, we understand the importance of preventing motor vehicle accidents and trucking accidents because we have seen the devastating and debilitating damage these types of accidents can cause. But if you or a loved one were unfortunate enough to be in one, our experienced Albuquerque trucking accident attorneys have the knowledge and compassion necessary to ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a FREE case evaluation by calling (505) 308-1556.
The Smith System of Defense Driving
There are five points of the Smith System of Defense Driving which you should commit to memory and practice whenever operating a motor vehicle. This is particularly important to avoid tractor trailer, semi, and other large commercial vehicle accidents. The five points of the Smith System of Defensive Driving include the following:
1 – Aim High When Driving – The first rule is to “aim high in steering.” Meaning staying alert of the traffic dangers not just right in front of you, but further down the road and even in front of the cars in front of you. This helps the driver view the road as a whole and not just what is immediately in front of the moving vehicle.
2 – The Big Picture – Look for all hazards in and around the roadway. This includes looking in front of you, behind you, in the lanes to your side, bicyclists along the roadway, pedestrians crossing, or car doors opening. Survey the whole roadway and what could come into it as a hazard.
3 – Keep Your Eyes Moving – Keep your eyes constantly moving and looking at hazards and obstacles as you continue to drive forward. Do not stare, and do not focus just in one direction for a long period of time. You should be constantly scanning and moving your eyes around.
4 – Leave Yourself and Out – Whenever you are driving a motor vehicle, ensure that you have one space to turn to in the case of an emergency. This means leaving yourself a little bubble to escape to in the result of an emergency. Never block yourself or box yourself in so you have no where to do if something comes in front of you. Always have a safe space to turn into as an “out.”
5 – Make Sure Others Can See You – This is the most important part of driving defensively when on the roadway with trucks, semis, and other large commercial vehicles. Always make sure that other motorists and truck drivers can see you and know where you are. Always make sure you are seen and visible. If you are not sure you are or were seen, use your horn or lights (if at night) to get another motorist’s attention.
Contact an Experienced Albuquerque Trucking Accident Attorney
If a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a New Mexico trucking accident, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Mark Caruso today by dialing (505) 308-1556. You can also contact us on our website through the easy to use and convenient Contact box located by clicking here.
