Apr 9, 2023 | Accident prevention, Driver Safety
Winter in the South is pretty unpredictable. Will we South and North Carolinians get a season of ice? Rain? Maybe a little snow? We never can be too sure, although we usually get at least one good snow in the South. For this reason, it’s important that a solid technique for driving safely in snow be well within your wheelhouse. But what steps can you take, besides staying home, to keep yourself safe when outside looks more like a winter wonderland than normal?
Driving Safely in Snow: Tips for Winter Trips
Look Further Ahead
When it’s cold and wet and frosty, you might find yourself focusing solely on the road ahead of you. After all, there are immediate dangers to account for. But, force yourself to take turns between looking closely and looking further ahead. You might see brake lights, patches of black ice, a car accident, wet spots, or another unexpected roadway obstruction. For these reasons, driving safely in the snow starts with thinking clearly, being on high alert, and looking at the road conditions around you. They can change rapidly.
Be prepared to skid and slide
No matter how dedicated you are to driving safely in the snow, a little bit of skidding and sliding is very common in this type of weather. Prepare for this possibility and understand the best ways to combat the problem. Drive slowly, don’t slam on the breaks, turn your hazards on, and remain calm. Review your front and rear wheel skidding techniques. Being from the South, we don’t experience this type of weather all that often so it can be scary. If you’re not prepared to deal with it, there’s no shame in staying home, asking for a ride, or walking to your destination if it’s close by!
Don’t fall for false senses of security, such as four wheel drive
Lastly, and most importantly, don’t put your faith into one function, feature, or item more than you put into your own ability to drive safely in show. Four-wheel drive, snow tires, or snow chains are fantastic tools for increasing safety. But don’t expect them to do the work for you. You have to remain focused, attentive, and cautious when driving— even if you have some mechanisms in place to make that trip just a bit safer. You never know when these safety features might fail you.
Dec 27, 2022 | Accident prevention, Driver Safety
Modern tech has helped to make driving easier and safer than ever. However, aside from the technology that’s in your car, there’s also car gadgets to consider. These gadgets can not just make your next drive easier to do, but also more enjoyable as well…
Car Gadgets: Helpful Solutions
Hands-free devices
Some of the most popular car gadgets are hands-free devices and software. While smartphones are very useful, they can be dangerous when behind the wheel. Still, plenty of people use their phones to play music or for GPS directions. As a result, they’re not sure how they can find a safe way to use their phone’s features.
This is where hands-free compatibility comes in handy. Many modern cars will allow for you to connect your phone via Bluetooth, an app, or a charger. This will allow you to do things on your phone through your car’s touchscreen or steering wheel. Not only is this easier, it’s also safer than having to hold your phone and drive at the same time.
Rear entertainment systems
Driving with kids can always be a bit of a struggle. It can be hard to keep them occupied, especially on longer trips. While smartphones and tablets can help, it may be that you don’t have enough for everyone to use, or that they’re too young. In this case, it can be handy to make use of some car gadgets.
In particular, rear entertainment systems can work wonders for keeping the kids busy. Many modern ones will allow for you to stream directly from a phone or tablet onto them. That way, everyone can watch without having to strain their necks. Some cars even have individual ones built into the back of the seats!
Multi-device chargers
One of the worst things is when your devices die while you’re still in the middle of a long trip. Eventually, things like your phones, tablets, and laptops will need to recharge. While this may be no issue with just a couple of passengers, it can be a problem when you have a lot. This is why multi-device chargers are becoming very handy car gadgets.
These chargers will let everyone be able to charge their devices at once. This is great not just for the convenience, but also for avoiding arguments. You won’t have to worry about trying to fight over who charges what while also trying to keep your attention on the road!
Sep 18, 2022 | Accident prevention, Personal Injury
In what is being described as a ‘record avalanche’ of early votes, the polls have been seemingly busier than usual during this season of early voting. Here in Charlotte, voting stations are available city wide. Bank of America Stadium is acting as a polling station so you can social distance and cast your early vote. But, with numbers on rise both in terms of voters and COVID-19, how do you practice early voting safety in this time that requires special consideration? The good news is that by going early, you’re already taking the first step.
How-to Practice Early Voting Safety during COVID-19: Safety in Numbers
Wear a mask
There are a few different things that you need to do in order to both follow CDC guidelines and to practice early voting safety. The first step we encourage is wearing a mask. While many public spaces currently enforce this mandate— you might find that you can sometimes slip through the cracks. Even in those instances, we encourage you to wear your mask. As we mention above, the number of early voters is at a record high. This means that even on a slow day or during an hour you might think to be slow, you might still find yourself in quite a long line or big crowd. Wear a mask, be aware, and keep your distance even if there is no one close by telling you to do so.
Hand Sanitizer is essential
Many polling places are skipping stickers this year and instead opting for pens with a stylus. Exercising the pen versus sticker option keeps you from having to touch as many different things. While this is absolutely a helpful and mindful step for North Carolina to take, it doesn’t fully eliminate the sanitation issue. So, keep hand sanitizer in your pocket or bag. Use sanitizer after every step of the process and hope others do the same. Early voting safety starts the same way as any other situation does— by keeping your hands and spaces clean and sanitary.
Consider mailing in your ballot
If you want to avoid the polling places altogether, consider choosing the mail-in ballot option. Mail-in ballot locations are located all over the city. All you have to do is drop your ballot in the box and go on with your day— easy as that! Many people feel wary of this option for any number of reasons. But, if you feel confident in doing so, mail-in voting a great way to practice early voting safety. Just make sure you are aware of the deadlines and that you have filled your ballot out properly.
Don’t let COVID-19 deter you from casting your vote!
I hope that through this article we have proven to your that early voting safety is possible! Whether it’s by mail, at a location in the coming weeks, or on election day. No matter how you vote, it is absolutely possible to protect yourself and others to the best of your ability. Vote safe, sanitize, find the best method for you, and practice your civic duty. We wish you a safe and healthy holiday season in this difficult time.
Apr 1, 2022 | Accident prevention, Work Injuries
There are workplace hazards that come with operating heavy machinery. Some examples of this type of equipment are cranes, front-end loaders, skid loaders, bulldozers, forklifts and tractors. Due to the size and weight of these pieces of equipment, they can be very dangerous. In fact, according to OSHA, about 404 people in America die each year in heavy equipment accidents. They also say the failure or misuse of heavy equipment is one of the top 10 causes of workplace fatalities. If you operate heavy machinery, it is important to know what to do and not do to best keep you safe.
Operating Heavy Machinery: Things to Know
Training
The first step to safely operating heavy machinery is to be properly trained. This may be a long, involved process, but it is essential for safety. Each person using this equipment should be trained and certified on using the equipment. Even if it is just on how to do a simple task, training is so important due to the nature of the machines. Regular refresher training is good to do every few weeks.
Take it Slow
Another thing to consider when operating heavy machinery is to take it slow and safe. If you are on a tight deadline to finish a project, you may feel the need to go fast. Do not fall into a trap where you skip safety steps and rush. This could lead to you making mistakes. Employers should not try and rush workers while they are using these heavy machines. Errors when using big, heavy equipment could turn into life threatening mistakes. Rushing is not worth the risk of hurting yourself or someone else.
Communication
When operating heavy machinery, it is so important to communicate on the job site. For example, make sure that all workers in the area know when a vehicle is occupied and in use. Have others keep an eye out and keep any dangerous areas around the vehicle clear. Communication also applies to creating clear guidelines for operating procedures. This way everyone is on the same page.
Remove Distractions
Distractions bring in another dangerous element when operating heavy machinery. Phones and headphones should not be used or allowed while using these heavy machines. Construction sites can be dangerous on their own. There are many hazards, including people moving around. A distracted machinery operator may not pay attention or notice people around them, or other hazards.
By following these guidelines, you will be safer while operating heavy machinery. They are not hard steps to follow, but can make a huge difference in workplace safety.
Feb 25, 2022 | Accident prevention, Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents, unfortunately, cause thousands of injuries, and even deaths each year. Pedestrian accidents are especially dangerous because the person has absolutely no protection against a car. In addition, cars are much heavier and faster. Back-up collisions with pedestrians are fairly common. In addition, cars turning at intersections is another common type of pedestrian accident. Pedestrians put themselves at risk when they dart out in front of cars unexpectedly. Especially where they aren’t supposed to. To avoid accidents with pedestrians, never assume they are paying attention. In addition, always drive carefully and alertly. Hopefully, knowing some common types of accidents will make you more aware of when to be extra careful about pedestrians.
Most Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents and How to Avoid Them
Back-Up Accidents
One of the most common types of pedestrian accidents occurs when cars are backing up. Often, these can occur in parking lots. Cars have a lot to pay attention to while backing up. They are often looking for oncoming traffic and neglect to also check for walkers. In addition, many drivers rely too much on mirrors and backup cameras. This can result in them missing people in their car’s blind spot.
Turning Cars
Another source of pedestrian accidents occurs when cars are turning. This is often at intersections but can also occur when cars are turning into parking lots or driveways. If a pedestrian is walking across at the same time they can collide. In intersections, these accidents often happen when cars are turning left. When cars have protected green left-turn arrows pedestrians shouldn’t be crossing. However, walkers can be crossing the street if a car is turning left across traffic. If the driver is paying more attention to finding a gap in the traffic, they could miss a pedestrian. In addition, when cars are turning left on red they often miss pedestrians. They are paying too much attention to cars and fail to notice the humans in the intersection.
Jay Walking
Jaywalking is another source of pedestrian accidents. This occurs when walkers cross the street at an unexpected location. Cars are not usually expecting pedestrians except at intersections. So a person darting out from behind a parked car or where they aren’t supposed to can get hit easily. Similarly, pedestrians crossing at intersections out of turn can be a target for accidents. This is because drivers aren’t expecting them to be blocking intersections.
How to Avoid Accidents with Pedestrians (never assume they’re paying attention)
The easiest way to avoid accidents with pedestrians is to pay attention. This is true if you’re the pedestrian or the driver. Distracted driving is a huge source of pedestrian accidents, so always put your phone away and pay attention to the road. As a pedestrian, you similarly need to always pay attention. Never cross at inappropriate places or dart out into traffic unexpectedly. If you’re in a parking lot, watch out for reverse lights. Also, it helps to wear bright colors instead of dark clothes if you’re walking at night.
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately all too common. They can often occur in parking lots when cars are reversing. Pedestrians should pay close attention when walking behind cars. They can also occur when cars are turning. Drivers need to always be aware and look for both traffic and walkers before turning. In addition, never run red lights. Jaywalking is also a common source of collisions as cars aren’t expecting a walker to be crossing the street. Whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver, you should never assume the other is paying attention. It’s up to everybody to be very alert when they are traveling on public roads.
Nov 19, 2021 | Accident prevention, Drinking Smart
Getting home from the bar safely is an important consideration if you plan to have a night of drinking. Drinking and driving can land you in a world of trouble legally and financially. Not to mention the pain if you were to get into a wreck and hurt someone. It’s best to have a plan before you head to the bar. Assign one friend to be the designated driver, or plan to catch a cab. You can also take public transportation which is often cheaper than a cab. And finally, if you’re in a pickle, call a friend and ask for a ride home. Nothing is worth the risk of getting behind the wheel when you’ve been drinking.
Getting Home from the Bar Safely: Avoiding a DWI
Plan a Designated Driver
One way of getting home from the bar safely is to make a plan before you even leave. If you know that you and your friends will be drinking too much to drive, assign a designated driver. A DD will need to stay sober for the entire night so that they can safely transport everybody home. You and your friends can rotate who the DD is each time you go out partying to make it fair for everybody.
Get a Cab
Another way to plan on getting home from the bar safely is to catch a cab. There are plenty of apps these days where you can hail a ride from a service like Uber or Lyft. Unless you are in a very remote town, you should be able to hail a ride from one of these services.
Public Transport
Public transport sometimes gets overlooked when getting home from the bar. But it is often cheaper than hiring a ride service or cab. Before you head out, see if there are any bus stops, trains, light rails, or subways that take you where you want to go. Make sure and check the schedules before leaving so you know when the last route of the day will happen.
Phone a Friend
Finally, if you’re attempting to get home from the bar safely and have run out of money or options, phone a friend. When you’re in a bind, you can ask a close friend or family member to come and pick you up. They’ll want to help you avoid the dangers of drinking and driving. So even if they are annoyed, they will probably respect you for not getting behind the wheel. If you are in an unfamiliar place, ask a bartender for help. They may be able to assist you.
The dangers of drinking and driving far outweigh the benefits of saving money on cab fare. It’s never worth it to risk a DWI or drunk driving accident. If you need help getting home from the bar safely, try to make a plan before you even leave the house. Assign a friend to be the DD for the evening. You can also download a ride service app on your phone or hire a cab. Public transport and simply walking home are options if you live in certain areas as well. And finally, if you’re really in a bind, call a friend or family member to pick you up. It’s always best to have a plan for getting back home before you ever leave your home in the first place. Knowing how you’ll safely get home will make your night less stressful.
