At the end of last year, the Los Angeles Times published a piece about the “most annoying offenses” committed by area drivers. These offenses aren’t just things like people driving for miles with their turn signal on or blasting a particularly obnoxious podcaster with the windows down.
They’re also potentially dangerous things for drivers and others on the road around them. The following are two of the most common.
Cellphone use
It’s been years since California prohibited the use of hand-held devices while driving. Despite the fines and other consequences (especially for repeated offenses), too many drivers still do it.
Often, people think that if they’re in stop-and-go traffic that’s mostly stopped, in a drive-thru line or at a stop light, it’s OK. However, these are still considered “driving” under the law – and that distraction can still cause a collision.
Tailgating
No one wants another driver “on their tail” close behind them. It can feel like an aggressive move. Sometimes, drivers do it because they don’t want anyone to merge in ahead of them. They might think the driver ahead is moving too slowly and hope to get them to change lanes or speed up. That just may be how they drive.
Regardless of the reason, it’s dangerous. The best thing to do is get out of their way if possible. That means move into another lane if there is one and it’s safe. Until then, maintain your speed if it’s reasonable. Don’t speed up to get away from them.
Defensive driving isn’t always enough to prevent a crash
These are only two of the “annoying” behaviors that many LA drivers experience every day – whether in their neighborhood or on the freeway. Driving defensively often means not assuming that anyone else will do the right thing and being prepared for anything.
That can help lessen the chances of being involved in a serious crash, but it doesn’t guarantee it. If you’re involved in a crash caused at least in part by another driver, having experienced legal guidance can make all the difference in getting maximum compensation for medical bills and other expenses and damages.