person driving car

Although hard data on car accidents during the COVID-19 pandemic has not come in yet, anecdotal evidence is beginning to come to light as drivers return to the roads. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many drivers took a break from driving since they were suddenly working from home and they were no longer transporting children to school and other activities.

Additionally, the drivers who have stayed on the roads regularly during the pandemic have definitely noticed a decrease in traffic. Many drivers are finding themselves traveling at higher speeds, and they may feel more at ease checking their phones more often while driving since traffic is much lighter.

What Driving Skills Have Declined During the Pandemic?

A recent survey by Hyundai found that one in five drivers admitted that they are not driving as well as they used to prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some drivers reported a decrease in driving skills, including the following:

  • Decrease in depth perception, causing drivers to scrape wheels against curbs.
  • Forgetting to use turn signals.
  • Forgetting which pedals are used for braking and accelerating.
  • Manual drivers reported more stalls due to being out of practice with shifting gears.

How Can I Work on My Driving Skills?

Drivers must first be aware that their driving skills may have eroded as a result of working and learning from home during the pandemic. For some, this situation may continue for quite some time; therefore, it is important to be more mindful every time a driver gets behind the wheel, especially when they may only drive once or twice per week. Some tips for drivers include the following:

Take Extra Precaution

Be aware of other drivers’ behaviors which may be more unpredictable than before. Although it may be tempting to look at the cellphone more often for directions or communication since there could be less traffic, resist this urge. This will increase one’s awareness of what is happening around them, such as a driver switching lanes or stopping unexpectedly.

Do Not Drive While Angry or Upset

This pandemic is taking its toll on many drivers’ mental health. Driving in an altered mental state will most definitely impact the ability to drive safely, which could cause a driver to drive erratically and cause an accident.

Keep a Safe Distance

Keeping a safe distance from other cars, even when there could be less of them on the road is always a good idea, especially during this time of uncertainty due to the pandemic.

Contact a Lawyer

Sometimes, car accidents are unpreventable. If a driver is involved in an accident, it is important to contact a lawyer. A lawyer will examine the facts of the case and determine if the car accident victim is eligible for compensation.

Doylestown Car Accident Lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC Help Car Accident Victims Obtain Compensation

If you were in a car accident that was caused by a negligent driver, you need to contact an experienced lawyer. Our accomplished Doylestown car accident lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC provide legal assistance to car accident victims. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 732-454-3306. Located in Oakhurst, Parlin, and Aberdeen, New Jersey, and Doylestown, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Asbury Park, Belmar, Deal, Ocean Township, Point Pleasant, Long Branch, West Long Branch, Sayreville, Middlesex County, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, as well as Bucks County, Pennsylvania.