Freeways can be intimidating and stressful – traffic, merging, missed exits – especially for inexperienced who may not be as well-versed in dealing with stressful road situations. Freeway accidents unfortunately happen all too often as a result – and even beyond the inexperienced, an accident can happen to anyone.

Just this week, celebrity soccer star David Beckham was involved in a rear-end car accident on the San Diego 405 freeway in Los Angeles. And, tragically, a high-speed traffic accident killed a driver on I-5 in San Diego due in part to inexperience and miscalculation.

There’s never been a more important time to educate drivers of all ages – and especially young ones – about freeway safety. Summer vacation is just around the corner, and with it comes increased driving.

San Diego freeway driving and car accident prevention

A 30-year-old San Diego resident was tragically killed on I-5 in a car accident after making a decision to back up his vehicle due to a missed exit, according to authorities. The driver, a U.S. Marine, father and husband, stopped in the fast lane of the freeway, and “backed across four lanes of the freeway” in what was appeared to be an attempt to drive back to an overshot exit.

The vehicle, a blue sedan with Louisiana plates, entered the drive path of an SUV, which swerved to avoid the Marine’s vehicle. Within moments, the Marine’s vehicle tragically collided with a cement truck.

Freeway driving happens fast – and when mistakes or miscalculations are added to the mix, a devastating situation can present itself. Consider the following tips to avoid accidents on the freeway. Of course, even the most well-prepared individual may, at one time or another, face the stress of a car accident.

More freeway driving essentials

  • Never back up on the freeway

Even if you are on the shoulder, or on an off-ramp, you may never back up on a freeway. Doing so can be extremely catastrophic and even result in death. Do not attempt to back up on the freeway at any time. This includes highways.

  • Drive a safe distance away from vehicles ahead of you

The best way to ensure you are driving a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you is to take the “3 second” test. It’s simple and can work well to prevent rear-end car accidents. First, choose a landmark ahead of you such as a light pole or building. As the car in front of you passes the landmark, count to three. Your vehicle should not pass the landmark until you have finished counting.

When accidents happen: ensure your well-being

If you are involved in a car accident, pull over to a safe area, and take inventory of your well-being. If you sense a feeling of confusion, dizziness, shock, or physical pain, you should take care to ensure your health is prioritized – whether it is lying down, breathing slowly, or seeking medical care. For serious injuries resulting out of a freeway car accident, contact an experienced San Diego personal injury attorney.

The purpose of using an attorney is to ensure you get a fair settlement for your injury. In our experience, we have found that insurance companies will often rush injured people to accept a settlement in haste without considering the total picture. Call the Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, APC., at 1-858-551-2090 or contact us online for a zero-cost legal evaluation.