By Michael Pines, Accident & Injury Prevention Expert
In my
last week, I discussed the recent increase in pileup accidents in San Diego – and across the nation. From the chain-reaction accident in Pennsylvania last month to the more recent pileup accident in Chula Vista, the news has been full of multiple-collision accidents. While rain may certainly play a part in the cause of these accidents, sometimes it can be chalked up to human error.
According to reports, yet another
made headlines. On Feb. 24, a U.S. marine and his passenger hit a stopped vehicle as they traveled the I-8 freeway. Reports indicate the marine got out of his car to help the other driver. But the roadway proved to be highly dangerous. According to the passenger, the marine jumped over the I-8 guardrail to avoid an oncoming vehicle believed to have been driving into the marine’s direction. Officials are unsure whether he died from the jump itself or after having been
The accident is being investigated.
Three other vehicles were involved in the pileup accident and five individuals were treated at area hospitals for minor injuries.
STAY SAFE & PROACTIVE IN THE FACE OF DANGER
All too often, tragic fatal accidents occur in San Diego. Injuries are also a big risk when getting behind the wheel – no matter how well you drive. After all, an accident can occur as a result of someone else’s error. To stay safe on today’s increasingly dangerous roadways, consider:
- The 3-Second Rule
In my previous blog post, I covered the importance of following the 3-second rule. The 3-second rule is a proactive style of driving that gives you, the driver, enough time to react in the event of emergency. Simply locate a stationary object ahead of you and the vehicle in front of you. As the vehicle ahead passes the object, begin your count. You should reach the number 3 just as you begin to pass the stationary object. If you pass the stationary object before the count is up, you are following too close. Be sure to increase the distance between you and the car ahead!
to find out more on the 3-second rule.
- Slowing Down During & After Rainfall
It goes without saying that moisture can cause extreme slip on our roadways, especially at the first rainfall of the season. That’s because dirt, brake dust, oil and other fluids become dangerously slick and grimy once water hits the roadway. Our tires are no match against these conditions. Slow down considerably during rainfall, or consider leaving when rain has let up. Don’t forget to increase the distance between you and the car ahead during inclement weather as well.
- Staying Inside Your Vehicle
You
may see cars around you, but
they may not see you.
Freeways are no match against pedestrians. Be sure to stay in your vehicle if you get into an accident on freeways or fast-moving highways. Always be sure to move your vehicle to the shoulder if possible. Exit the freeway when feasible and practical, and communicate your intentions to the other driver (it goes without saying that you should never evade the scene of the accident). Your goal is to exchange information in the safest place possible. Use your discretion and common sense; call the police if you need help.
About Michael Pines
Michael Pines is San Diego’s most trusted personal injury attorney having served the area for over 20 years. His firm specializes in car accident injury. He is widely known as an accident and injury prevention expert, on a mission to end senseless accidents one article at a time. Visit
for more information.