Proper lane changes to help reduce accidents

Back to basics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 9 percent (533,000) of all accidents occurred when vehicles were changing lanes or merging. Why? Often it's because defensive driving goes out the window, and a vehicle makes an improper lane change. Here are just a few of the most common causes:

• Drivers might not see the other vehicle, which may be because of blocked vision
• Vehicles may drift into another lane because of driver fatigue, drunkenness, drowsiness or other distractions
• Drivers might be multitasking; cell phone use is common, but drivers who eat and read while behind the wheel don't have their full concentration on the road
• Fog, rain, heavy rain, snow, and other weather-related conditions may cause low visibility

How you can protect yourself and others

Defensive driving is the best way to avoid lane-change accidents. Here are some suggestions that might help keep you safe:

• Improve your vision and reduce blind spots by keeping mirrors clean and properly adjusted. Mirror extensions or the use of convex-type mirrors can help improve a driver's vision.
• Slow down and maintain proper spacing based on traffic and weather conditions. Consider the weight and speed of your vehicle and how much stopping distance you'll need.
• Signal your intentions. Focus on the overall traffic and road conditions, not just the immediate vehicle in front of you. Leave space for emergency action.
• Avoid unnecessary lane changes.

Help is available

At Allstate, we want to not only provide the insurance coverage that helps protect your people and property, but to give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're backed by a team of Loss Control Consultants who understand your business and can help you prevent a loss before it happens.

That's why we've created the Allstate Safety Line at 800-877-6998, where Loss Control Consultants personally help small-business owners learn more about:

• Fleet and auto safety
• Accident investigations
• Self-inspection procedures
• Safety training
• Fire protection and safety
• Hazard control methods
• Safety and health rules and regulations that apply to your particular business
• Much more

Just call us anytime with your contact information and briefly describe your question or issue. If a trained Loss Control Specialist isn't immediately available, one will call you back by the end of the next business day.