Though it is true that the majority of Americans buckle up when they get in a vehicle, some still don’t. The fact of the matter is that your seat belt could be a lifesaver if you are involved in a San Diego car accident.

The importance of seat belts

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts are the single most effective traffic-safety device. All people, whether you are a driver or a passenger, are strongly encouraged to buckle up when traveling in any type of motorized vehicle.

Why some people refuse

There are many excuses as to why people still refuse to wear a safety belt. Some of the most common excuses include:

• “I’m a safe driver.” Though that may be true, some that you share the Southern California roadways are not. Their actions and negligence can result in you being seriously injured in a car accident.
• “I’m just going down the street.” Studies conclude that this could be the most dangerous time for you and your family. Nearly 80 percent of all fatal auto accidents occur within 25 miles of home and while traveling under 40 miles per hour.
• “I may become trapped.” According to studies, the best place for you to be in if you are involved in a collision is your car. The chances that your car will catch fire or become submerged are slim. In fact, you are 25 times more likely to die if you are ejected from your vehicle.
• “Seat belts are uncomfortable.” You may learn that treatment for a car accident injury is more uncomfortable. Imagine the treatment involved for a broken leg, arm, or neck.
• “My airbag will protect me.” Airbags are only designed to enhance the effectiveness of your seat belt. They were never designed to replace them.

The alarming statistics

If you still need some convincing about the importance of seat belts, take a look these startling statistics:

• Auto accidents are the leading cause of death for people ages 35 and under.
• Over 40,000 people are killed in auto accidents annually.
• Over 40 percent of those killed each year in auto accidents are not wearing safety belts.

There are still some groups who tend to travel unbuckled

Despite the facts, some groups are still less likely to buckle up. They include teens, commercial drivers, men driving in rural areas, and pickup truck drivers.

If you are injured in an auto accident

No matter how safe of a driver you are or what precautions you take, you can’t control the driving habits of those with whom you share the roadways. If you were injured in an accident caused by another person, you might be able to hold that person liable for your damages. That is why you should speak to an experienced auto accident attorney.
Keith J. Stone has helped countless car accident victims recover finances for their damages. His goal is to protect your rights and get you the compensation you and your family deserve. It all starts by ordering a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your course of action.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

It’s well-documented that the Southern California roads and freeways can be treacherous. Though you may be a safe driver, you can’t always control the driving habits of those with whom you share the roadways. Their negligence can lead to you or someone you know being seriously injured in a San Diego auto accident.

Do you know what to do following an accident?

Unfortunately, many accident victims are not prepared and do not know what to do following an accident. For that reason, we prepared this list of simple steps to follow in the event you are involved in a collision:

• Identify injuries. Before worrying about the extent of damage to your car, you need to make sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe. If you or someone else needs medical attention, dial 911 right away.
• Exchange information. Though you may not want to think about it at the time of the accident, you will have to consider the legal ramifications of your collision. You will need to identify the other driver(s) as quickly as possible and gather as much information about them as you can. For example, get their name, number, address, driver’s license number, registration information, and insurance details. This will help you build a successful case.
• Check to see if there are any witnesses. Look to see if anyone witnessed your accident. They might be of great assistance in proving to a jury that your version of events is accurate. Get any names, numbers, addresses, and email addresses of anyone you can. Also, ask that they speak with a police officer about what they saw before leaving the accident scene.
• Snap as many pictures as possible. If your cell phone is equipped with a camera, take as many pictures of the accident scene as possible. These pictures can be persuasive when presented before a judge or jury. You may also want to jot down any initial thoughts you might have about the accident on a pad of paper.
• Notify your insurance company of your accident. This is necessary and important, even if the accident was your fault.
• Retain your own legal counsel. Having your own auto accident attorney is paramount to the success of your case. You can count on the fact that the other person’s insurance company will engage in tactics to discredit your case and pay you as little as possible, if anything at all. Do not speak with them, give any statements, sign anything, or admit fault without consulting your own lawyer first.

Will I become a victim of the insurance game?

You may if you proceed with your claim on your own. Keith J. Stone has the experience and knowledge to protect you from the insurance companies. He will work hard to defend your rights and ensure you are not victimized again. His goal is for you to receive the best compensation possible for your damages.
To get started, order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to provide you with critical answers concerning your auto accident case.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

It’s not uncommon to become distracted when behind the wheel. Unfortunately, the simplest driving distraction can result in you becoming seriously injured in a San Diego auto accident. That is why you should be familiar with some of the common driving distractions that you may encounter and how to avoid them.
Here are seven of the most common driving distractions:

• Texting and driving. Texting and driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do when operating a vehicle. It requires the use of your hands, as well as takes your eyes off the road for many seconds at a time. You may not be able to respond to a sudden road hazard, such as a pedestrian or stopped vehicle.
• Talking on your cell phone. Though it is illegal in California to text and drive, many motorists still succumb to the temptation. Receiving or making a call requires the use of at least one hand and requires you to take your eyes off the road. You should consider turning your phone off or putting it in the back seat or trunk when driving.
• Traveling with children. A simple conversation among kids can quickly turn into fighting and bickering. You may be tempted to turn your head around to scold your kids. Again, your eyes are off the road. You should pull to the side of road before dealing with your children.
• Traveling with pets. Your pet should never be allowed to travel in your lap or in the front seat. They are unpredictable and may suddenly jump into your lap. This may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Make sure they are safely secured in the back seat.
• Conversing with passengers. You could be at risk of a car accident by engaging in deep conservations with your passengers. Make sure you keep your full attention on driving when talking with other people in your vehicle.
• Eating and drinking while driving. It takes multiple hand movements to consume a meal while driving. By taking even one hand off the wheel can make it difficult to respond to sudden road hazards. You should consume your meal before turning on your car.
• Personal grooming. The same goes for personal grooming. It takes at least one hand to shave, apply makeup, or do your hair. These activities can lead to a serious auto accident and should be done before you get into your vehicle.

The unpredictability of other drivers

Those with whom you share the Southern California roadways may not practice the same safe-driving habits you do. Their distractions could result in you or a loved one being injured in a wreck. You might be able to hold them liable for your damages if their distractions caused your injuries.

Your next step

Keith J. Stone has helped countless auto accident victims recover for their damages. He has the experience to help build your case, defend your rights, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve. He can also help you negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company.
While you are on our website, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you were injured in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your next steps.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

No matter how safe of a driver you are, you can’t always avoid becoming distracted when behind the wheel. Unfortunately, even the slightest distraction can lead to you being seriously injured in a San Diego car accident. Driving requires your full attention.

The three types of driving distractions

Driving distractions can be categorized into three types. A driving distraction is anything that takes your:

• Eyes of the road (visual).
• Mind and thoughts off the road (cognitive).
• Your hands off the wheel (manual).

When you take your eyes off the road

It’s always tempting to take your eyes off the road to look at events taking place outside your window. However, this can prove to be deadly. Taking your eyes off the road for even a split second can leave you unable to respond to sudden road hazards. You may not be able to stop for a pedestrian or stopping vehicle. Common visual distractions include:

• Other accidents
• Law enforcement activity
• Construction work
• Billboard ads
• Street addresses
• Turning your head to address children in the back seat

When you take your mind off the road

Cognitive distractions are equally as dangerous. Driving is an activity that requires constant and complex coordination between your body and mind. You should avoid concentrating too hard on conversations with your passengers, music, talk radio, and books on tape. You should also be cautious of daydreaming.

When you take your hands off the steering wheel

You should avoid any activity that requires you to take even one hand off the steering wheel. Manual distractions can leave you unable to maneuver around unexpected road dangers. When driving, you should avoid the following manual distractions:

• Eating and drinking
• Adjusting radio and GPS dials
• Tobacco use
• Personal grooming, such as putting on makeup and shaving
• Reaching for an object on the floor or in another seat
• Reading
• Folding or unfolding a map

When you text and drive

Texting and driving could be considered one of the most dangerous driving distractions of all. In many instances, it falls into all three driving distraction categories at the same time. When you read or send a text, it generally requires the use of at least one hand and draws your mind and eyes away from the road.
That is why you should finish or make that last call before you get into your vehicle. Also, consider storing your phone in the trunk or back seat and away from where you can’t access it while driving.

Those you share the roadways with

Not everyone you share the Southern California roadways with practices safe driving habits. Their distractions can lead to you being injured in a serious accident. Keith J. Stone can help if you were injured by a distracted driver.
His goal is to make sure the other driver is held responsible for your damages. He will work hard to protect your rights, protect you from the other insurance company and their tactics, and to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Where to start

To learn more about your case, be sure to order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.
If you have been injured in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will be able to help you determine your next steps.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

If your teen is getting ready to drive or is already driving, then you understand the angst all parents share. A San Diego auto accident can occur at any time, leaving them seriously injured. That is why parents should take it upon themselves to help prepare their teens for operating a vehicle safely.

Practice with Them

New drivers need practice. As a parent, you should devote as much time as possible to helping your teen learn how to drive. It is recommended that you spend at least 50 hours practicing with your child before letting them on their own.

Distractions, Distractions, Distractions

It’s no secret that driving distractions claim the lives of thousands of Americans each year. Studies show that teens are more likely to engage in distractive behaviors when behind the wheel. Instruct them that the following should not be done when behind the wheel:

• Texting and driving.
• Talking on the phone.
• Eating and drinking.
• Personal grooming, such as applying makeup and doing hair.
• Staring at other accident scenes.
• Adjusting the radio.

Set a Good Example

Oftentimes, young children mimic the things they see their parents do. The same goes for teens, especially when it comes to driving. How comfortable would you be if your child engaged in the same driving habits as you do? You should always drive in the same way you hope your child will.

Teach Them the Steps to Take after an Auto Accident

Unfortunately, you can’t always prevent your teen from being involved in an auto accident. That is why it is essential that they know what to do immediately following a collision, such as:

• Check to make sure no one is seriously injured. Dial 911 immediately if someone appears to need medical attention.
• Locate the other driver and ask for their personal information. This includes their name, address, phone number, insurance information, driver’s license number, and registration information. The more information the better.
• Snap as many pictures of the accident scene as possible. This may help if their case goes to trial.
• Locate any witnesses. Request their personal information, including name and phone number.
• Write down everything you can think of about the accident as quickly as possible.
• Do not speak with the insurance adjuster. Keep in mind that their goal is to discredit your child’s account of the accident and payout as little as possible.

If the Unthinkable Should Occur

All parents dread the midnight call informing them that their child has been injured in an accident. Unfortunately, this scenario is possible every time your teen gets behind the wheel.

Attorney Keith Stone can help if your child becomes the victim of a car accident. He has the experience and knowledge necessary to build your child’s auto accident injury case. He will fight to get your child the compensation they deserve for their damages.

Your Free Informative Guide

Protecting the integrity of your child’s case is important. That’s why you should start by ordering a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

If your teenager has been injured in an auto accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will ensure that your child’s rights are protected and guide your family through the legal process.

San Diego, Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura Counties including the cities of:

San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, Glendale, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Ontario, Pomona, Palmdale, Pasadena, Corona, Torrance, Escondido, Lancaster, Orange, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, El Monte, Inglewood, Costa Mesa, Downey, West Covina, Victorville, San Buenaventura (Ventura), Norwalk, Burbank, Carlsbad, Temecula, South Gate, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, Rialto, Compton, El Cajon, Carson, Vista, Westminster, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hawthorne, Alhambra, Hesperia, Whittier, Newport Beach, Chino, San Marcos, Buena Park, Lakewood, Indio, Baldwin Park, Chino Hills, Blythe

Keith J. Stone also handles cases originating elsewhere in California and across the USA.

San Diego has always been a popular destination for tourists and people looking to relocate their families. People cite the climate as one of the number-one reasons as to why they come here.

However, the warm weather also means more people travel the city on foot rather than by car. This can increase your chances of being injured in a San Diego pedestrian accident. New reports indicate walking while distracted can increase those risks greatly.

An Overall Look at Pedestrian Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), overall traffic fatalities were down in 2010. However, the amount of pedestrian injuries rose again. The NHTSA reports that in 2010:

• Pedestrian fatalities jumped 4.2 percent.
• Pedestrian injuries increased 19 percent.

More Pedestrians Injured Due to Distractions

Walking distractions might be the major culprit. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports an increase in pedestrian fatalities due to walking distractions involving electronic handheld devices, such as cell phones. They also report a spike in distracted walkers being treated in American emergency rooms. The number has quadrupled in the past seven years.

“We are where we were with cell phone use in cars 10 years ago or so,” said Jonathan Akins, Deputy Executive Director of the Governor’s Highway Safety Association. “We knew it was a problem, but we didn’t have the data.”

Common Walking Distractions

Many distractions can take a pedestrian’s attention away from navigating the streets or a parking lot on foot. However, electronic handheld devices are becoming more of a problem for walkers. Common distractions involving electronic handheld devices include:

• Operating a cell phone to make and/or receive calls.
• Sending and receiving text messages.
• Listening to music or downloaded e-books.
• Viewing online news articles and websites.
• Playing online or downloaded video games.

Common Places of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians should always be wary of the dangers motorized vehicles pose to them. However, there are certain places where a distracted pedestrian accident is more likely to occur. They include:

• Shopping centers.
• Beach and coastal parking areas.
• Parking lots in rural areas.
• Along city and downtown streets.
• Parking structures near office buildings.

If You Have Been Hurt in a Pedestrian Accident

Regardless of how or who was responsible for your accident injury, you might be able to hold the other driver responsible for your damages. However, proving they are liable is no easy task. That is why you should contact Keith J. Stone.

Mr. Stone and his team are experienced in helping accident victims recover for their damages. He will evaluate the merits of your case and provide you with insightful answers concerning what you should do next.

Order Your Free Book

To get a head start in building a strong accident case, you can order from our website a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

If you have been injured in pedestrian accident, call San Diego pedestrian accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He can provide you with the answers you need for the results you want.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

San Diego has some of the best weather in the world. This means that thousands of people travel on foot each day throughout the surrounding areas and downtown. It also means you are more at risk of being injured in a pedestrian accident.

That is why we have included below seven simple safety tips you and your family can practice to help avoid being seriously injured in an accident.

It Starts by Using Your Eyes

Pedestrian safety starts by using your eyes. You should always be scanning for potential dangers. It also includes avoiding walking distractions such as:

• Your electronic handheld device.
• Texting.
• Using your phone to make and receive calls.
• Reading newspapers, books, magazines, and maps.
• Listening to music.

Be Predictable When on Foot

The last thing you want is to confuse a driver about your intentions. You should:

• Never dart onto a street.
• Never cross mid-block or jaywalk.
• Always walk in a straight line.
• Always avoid meandering around crosswalks.

Look Both Ways

You probably learned this lesson as a kid…always look both ways before crossing the street. This simple principle still holds true today. You can never assume that the other driver sees you. Though you may have the right of way, you still run the risk of being hit by an unobservant motorist.

Cross Only in Crosswalks and Designated Areas

Though you may be tempted to jaywalk, crossing mid-block can result in deadly consequences. Take the extra time to cross at intersections and designated crossing areas.

Make Sure You Are Seen

Again, though you may have the right-of-way, you can’t count on the other driver seeing you cross the street. It’s your responsibility to make eye contact with the driver. You should wait until they stop and/or acknowledge you before entering the street.

Obey Traffic Rules

Generally speaking, most auto accidents are the result of someone failing to obey a traffic rule. The same goes for pedestrian accidents. Failure to adhere to traffic rules may result in a serious injury. When on foot, you:

• Should never enter a crosswalk when the red light in flashing.
• Should avoid jaywalking and crossing mid-block.
• Should stay within the designated crosswalk boundaries.

Follow the Same Tips in Parking Lots

Many pedestrians are injured each year in parking lots. Follow the same safety tips when walking in a parking lot to avoid being hit. Common parking lot locations where people are hit include:

• Beach areas.
• Office buildings.
• Grocery centers.
• Retail centers.

You Can’t Always Avoid Being Hit

Unfortunately, no matter how many safety precautions you take, you can’t always avoid being hit by a car. However, if you are injured by a motorist, you might be able to hold the driver liable for your damages. Keith J. Stone has helped countless accident victims recover for their injuries.

While you are on his website, you can get started by ordering a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident. It will help guide you through the process of building a strong accident case.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.

The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California:

Officers throughout California will be out in force on a “Primary Collision Factor” operation this December 2012. The police will be cracking down on drivers and pedestrians who do not follow the Rules of the Road. This is all in an effort to improve traffic safety, save lives and prevent injuries.

Since 2009, pedestrian fatalities have increased all over California. In Chula Vista alone… there have been six (6) serious injury or fatal vehicle versus pedestrian collisions over the past year. There were three (3) fatalities this past October  2012.

It is both a driver’s and pedestrians responsibility to assure pedestrian safety. Here are a few reminders for us… Drivers and/ or pedestrians to keep in mind while on the roadways:

DRIVERS:

1. Slow down and look out for others

2. Do not phone or text while driving

3 .Do not drive angry or distracted

4. Obey traffic rules

5. Share the road

6. Look out for pedestrians

7. Do not block crosswalks

8. Slow down at crosswalks

9. Do not pass cars that have stopped for pedestrians

10. Be alert for chldren

11. Check behind before backing up.

Pedestrians:

1. Look around and pay attention

2. Do not assume you’re seen

3. Do not phone or text while walking in traffic

4. Obey the traffic rules

5. Stay on sidewalks

6. Use marked crosswalks

7. Be alert for cars backing up

8. Carry a flashlight at night

9. Hold children’s hand when crossing near traffic

Please do not be a victim this holiday season. But if you are ….. Call Me at the law offices of Keith J. Stone. We are here to help!

San Diego, Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura Counties including the cities of:

San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, Glendale, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Ontario, Pomona, Palmdale, Pasadena, Corona, Torrance, Escondido, Lancaster, Orange, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, El Monte, Inglewood, Costa Mesa, Downey, West Covina, Victorville, San Buenaventura (Ventura), Norwalk, Burbank, Carlsbad, Temecula, South Gate, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, Rialto, Compton, El Cajon, Carson, Vista, Westminster, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hawthorne, Alhambra, Hesperia, Whittier, Newport Beach, Chino, San Marcos, Buena Park, Lakewood, Indio, Baldwin Park, Chino Hills, Blythe

If you have a “car accident to-do list” in your glove compartment, you are unlike most Americans. The truth of the matter is most motorists are unaware of what they should do following a San Diego auto accident.

In this article, we discuss four things you should do if you are involved in a collision.

Get Prompt Medical Attention

Your health is your top priority. Make sure you get prompt medical attention, no matter how minor your injuries appear. Unfortunately, many symptoms do not surface until weeks following an accident. In addition, your case could be jeopardized significantly if you fail to get immediate medical attention. Common auto accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs.
• Whiplash.
• Broken limbs.
• Cuts and bruises, due to striking the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield, or side window at impact.

Never Admit Fault

This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Anything you say at the accident scene or to the insurance company will be used against you. No matter how embarrassed you feel or the details surrounding the accident, never admit fault. Talk to an experienced car accident attorney before anyone else.

Be Your Own Private Investigator

If you are physically able, you should collect as much evidence at the accident scene as possible. Take as many pictures as possible with your cell phone. In addition, get the names and numbers of anyone who may have witnessed the crash. Lastly, get as much personal information about the other driver or drivers as possible, including:

• Name
• Phone number
• Driver’s license information
• License plate number
• Insurance information
• Registration information

Seek Legal Advice

It’s one thing serving as your own PI; it’s another trying to serve as your own accident attorney. Though it may be tempting, trying to represent yourself before the insurance companies or in front of a court can have catastrophic consequences regarding your compensation. Remember, the other side has a great deal of experience and will do everything they can to discredit your accident case.

We Can Help

Keith J. Stone and his team have dealt with countless insurance companies and know how to prevent them from taking advantage of you. Our primary goal is protecting your rights. We want to ensure you get the best medical attention possible and that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.

Order Our Free Book

You can learn more about your auto accident case by requesting a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

Let San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone help you if you have been injured in a car accident. You can reach him at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW.

San Diego, Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura Counties including the cities of:

San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, Glendale, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Ontario, Pomona, Palmdale, Pasadena, Corona, Torrance, Escondido, Lancaster, Orange, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, El Monte, Inglewood, Costa Mesa, Downey, West Covina, Victorville, San Buenaventura (Ventura), Norwalk, Burbank, Carlsbad, Temecula, South Gate, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, Rialto, Compton, El Cajon, Carson, Vista, Westminster, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hawthorne, Alhambra, Hesperia, Whittier, Newport Beach, Chino, San Marcos, Buena Park, Lakewood, Indio, Baldwin Park, Chino Hills, Blythe

Keith J. Stone also handles cases originating elsewhere in California and across the USA.

Though San Diego is not known for bad weather, rain and fog can prove catastrophic, especially for those who do not know what adjustments to make when the weather turns bad. As the weather continues to cool, you should be prepared for every scenario. One mistake can lead to a car accident and result in a serious and debilitating injury.

Wet Road Conditions

Rain creates problems for Southern California drivers. Rain means wet road conditions, which often leads to slick and slippery streets. Inexperience can lead to an accident when wet roads cause a driver to slide off the road or into oncoming traffic. When driving in the rain, you should:

• Slow down. Make sure you maintain a speed under the posted speed limit.
• Keep your headlights on.
• Turn on your air conditioner or defroster to improve visibility.
• Ensure your tires have proper tread.
• Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition.

Fog

Though fog is not so common, it does appear from time to time. Fog reduces visibility, making it difficult to avoid other road hazards. When driving in the fog, make sure to:

• Drive slower than normal.
• Consider pulling into a parking lot until the fog has lifted.
• Pull to the side of the road. Make sure your hazard lights are turned on.
• Avoid using your high beams.
• Keep a safe distance behind all vehicles ahead of you.

Snowy and Icy Conditions

Wintertime is popular for families to hit the mountains for skiing, snowboarding, and fun in the snow. Though it doesn’t snow in San Diego, popular family winter destinations offer some of the most dangerous road conditions. Here are some safety tips when driving in the snow:

• Maintain a slow and steady speed.
• When breaking, do so cautiously. Avoid slamming on your brakes.
• When approaching a bridge or overpass, keep your speed down and avoid sudden changes in speed.
• Make sure you have tire chains and that you know how to install them.

When Your Accident Is Not Your Fault

No matter how safe of a driver you are, not all drivers with whom you share the Southern California roadways practice the same safe driving habits. Their negligence can result in you or a loved one suffering a serious car accident injury. That is why you should call experienced car accident attorney Keith J. Stone.

Mr. Stone has helped countless accident injury victims build their cases. He will work hard to defend your compensation rights and ensure you get the best medical treatment possible. He will also work hard to help you get the compensation you and your family deserve.

To get the answers you need about your injury case, order a free copy of our informative guide, What to Do in an Auto Accident.

Call San Diego auto accident attorney Keith J. Stone if you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a car accident. Call today at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW.

San Diego, Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura Counties including the cities of:

San Diego, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Riverside, Chula Vista, Irvine, Glendale, San Bernardino, Huntington Beach, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Oceanside, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Ontario, Pomona, Palmdale, Pasadena, Corona, Torrance, Escondido, Lancaster, Orange, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, El Monte, Inglewood, Costa Mesa, Downey, West Covina, Victorville, San Buenaventura (Ventura), Norwalk, Burbank, Carlsbad, Temecula, South Gate, Murrieta, Mission Viejo, Rialto, Compton, El Cajon, Carson, Vista, Westminster, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Hawthorne, Alhambra, Hesperia, Whittier, Newport Beach, Chino, San Marcos, Buena Park, Lakewood, Indio, Baldwin Park, Chino Hills, Blythe

Keith J. Stone also handles cases originating elsewhere in California and across the USA.