How to Stay Safe During the California Fires
Posted on November 13, 2018 Written By: iadminlaw
Summary:
The fires in California are making for hazardous driving conditions—including diminished visibility, debris on the roads, and ample traffic jams. It’s never been more perilous to get behind the wheel in California. In the event of an accident, remember to:
1. Work with law enforcement/file a police report.
2. Exchange contact information with the other drivers.
3. Seek guidance from a car accident lawyer, such as I Accident Lawyer.
The current scene in California is truly heartbreaking, as major fires are leading to widespread wreckage and devastation. Fires in both the northern and southern parts of the state have reached historic proportions, and they’re causing damage to property and peril to life and limb. At the time of this writing, the death toll is already into the dozens.
The dangers posed by California’s fires come in multiple forms. It’s not just the fires themselves but all the smoke spilling into the sky. According to the California auto accident lawyers at I Accident Lawyer, all that smoke is actually leading to a heightened risk of vehicular collision.
How the Fires Have Impacted Drivers
Indeed, the car accident attorneys at I Accident Lawyer say that all the smoke has significantly reduced visibility—meaning drivers are having a tough time avoiding accidents. And that’s just one way in which everyday motorists have been imperiled by the fires. Evacuations have caused major traffic jams—and in some cases, accidents. And debris from the fires is everywhere, providing obstacles for drivers to outmaneuver—not always successfully.
In other words, it’s a tough time in California on many different levels, and getting behind the wheel is more dangerous than ever—yet there are some steps you can take to keep yourself safe and secure.
Driving Safely During the California Fires
Some general tips from the car accident attorneys at I Accident Lawyer:
- Take things slow. With visibility decreased, cautious driving is more important than ever.
- Allow yourself a little extra time to get where you need to go—especially if you’re in an area where evacuations have increased traffic.
- If you’re in an area where visibility is really bad, you frankly need to avoid driving at all unless absolutely necessary.
- Follow all the normal traffic/highway laws as much as possible.
Even following these guidelines, it’s still possible that you could become involved in an accident. Here’s what to do if that happens:
- Call the police and ask them to file a report; the officer’s report will provide an important factual basis should your case ever end up in court, or should your insurance company dispute your claim.
- Exchange information with the other driver(s). Collect their name, contact info, and insurance details, and provide them with your own. If any witnesses are present, ask for their name and phone number, as well.
- Contact an auto accident lawyer who can take on your case, and ensure you get the compensation and the care that you need. I Accident Lawyer is proud to provide personal injury representation to drivers in California.
Talk to a Car Accident Attorney Today
These fires are serious business, and it’s vital to take every possible precaution. That includes knowing the name of a reputable car accident lawyer. To learn more, or to have your case reviewed, reach out to the team at I Accident Lawyer today. We are available to help 24/7.
