Tips to stay safe during vacation season
Join us this July in recognizing National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month, a month-long initiative highlighting the collective efforts needed to make our roads safer. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the quiet backroads of rural Louisiana, this pivotal month is about adopting safer driving habits, understanding local traffic laws, and taking proactive steps to avoid accidents.
At The Johnson Firm, we’re dedicated to supporting this vital initiative through community education and outreach and ensuring that anyone affected by roadside accidents receives the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one were hurt in a collision that wasn’t your fault, call our Lake Charles car accident lawyers at (337) 433-1414.
What is National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month?
Recognized yearly in July, National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month promotes safe driving practices and increases awareness about preventing roadside accidents. It’s a time when public and private organizations come together to educate the public about the importance of roadway safety, highlighting everything from seatbelts and child car seats to the dangers of distracted driving and speeding.
Key roadside safety tips for drivers
1. Stay visible
Always ensure your vehicle is visible to other drivers, especially at night or in bad weather conditions. Use your headlights, maintain clean signal lights, and apply reflective materials on your vehicle if necessary.
2. Maintain your vehicle
Regular maintenance checks are crucial. Ensure your brakes, tires, lights, and engine are in good working condition to prevent breakdowns or malfunctions on the road, which could lead to accidents.
3. Follow Louisiana’s traffic laws
Louisiana’s traffic regulations are designed to protect everyone on the road. Familiarize yourself with Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 32 — Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation to understand your obligations and rights as a driver. This includes adhering to speed limits, yielding the right of way when necessary, and following rules specific to Louisiana roads.
4. Avoid distractions
Distracted driving is a leading cause of traffic accidents. Louisiana law (RS 32:300.5) prohibits all drivers from texting while driving. Keep your attention on the road and avoid using mobile devices or other distractions.
5. Be prepared for emergencies
Keep an emergency kit in your car, including items like a first aid kit, water, blankets, a flashlight, and basic tools. Additionally, know basic roadside emergency procedures. If your vehicle breaks down, move it to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and place warning signs or cones around your car to alert other drivers.
Roadside safety tips for pedestrians
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable users of roadways, and their safety is a critical focus of National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month. Walking in a busy city or a quiet neighborhood, pedestrians must take proactive steps to ensure safety. Here are some essential tips for pedestrians to stay safe while navigating Louisiana’s roadways:
- Use designated crosswalks and Intersections
- Stay visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially when walking at night or in poor weather conditions
- Stay alert and minimize distractions
- Follow traffic signals
- Walk facing traffic when sidewalks are unavailable
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. By following these guidelines, pedestrians can contribute significantly to safer interactions with vehicles on the road. Remember, awareness and precaution are your best tools for staying safe on the streets.
The Johnson Firm encourages roadside safety
At The Johnson Firm, we are dedicated to the safety and well-being of all Louisiana drivers and pedestrians. During National Roadside Traffic Safety Awareness Month and throughout the year, we actively participate in community outreach programs to educate the public about traffic safety. Our team provides resources and legal advice to help prevent accidents and respond effectively if they occur.
Supporting accident victims
If you are involved in a roadside accident, The Johnson Firm is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of traffic accident claims in Louisiana, and we provide comprehensive legal support to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for injuries and losses. Contact us online or call (337) 433-1414 to schedule your free case consultation.