How to Avoid a Head-on Collision: 7 Essential Tips

Do you know how to avoid a head-on collision with another vehicle at night, during inclement weather, or if another driver loses control? No driver wants to see an oncoming vehicle veering across the median or feel their car skid into oncoming traffic. Formula 1 Collision Center, your source for reliable collision repair in Tucson, AZ, wants every driver to develop the defensive-driving skills and practical habits that keep them safe on the road. 

Tip #1: Drive Responsibly in Inclement Weather

One cause of catastrophic accidents is motorists being overconfident when driving in inclement weather. Fog, heavy rain, snow, ice, and other adverse weather conditions can affect your response time and change how your vehicle handles and stops. Be willing to drive below the posted speed limit in dangerous weather so you can brake when you need to without losing control.

Tip #2: Watch for Obstacles and Accidents

Often accidents happen when drivers do not see obstacles until they are moments from impact. One driver leaves their lane abruptly, only to end up in the path of an oncoming vehicle.

Scan ahead so that if a stationary object blocks the roadway ahead, you have time to change lanes safely. Be aware of anything on the road that might cause someone to change lanes.

Tip #3: Avoid Distracted Driving

Knowing how to avoid head-on collisions will not keep you safe if you do not notice an oncoming vehicle until it is too late. Leave your phone off while you are driving, avoid arguing, and keep your mind on the road. Play it safe and pull over if anything is keeping you from paying full attention to the road. 

Tip #4: Do Not Drive While Impaired

Drunk driving or driving while fatigued, under the influence of medications, or suffering from a health condition could lead to a head-on crash.

Tip #5: Move Right to Avoid Oncoming Vehicles

If you find yourself facing oncoming traffic on the left side of the roadway, avoid the temptation to continue moving left to avoid a collision. The other driver might try to avoid you by steering right (to your left) and then crash into you. The best way to avoid a collision is for both you and the other drivers to move right.

Tip #6: Maintain Your Vehicle Properly

If you experience any problems with braking, steering, or maintaining control of your vehicle’s speed, take it to a qualified mechanic for repair immediately. Do not drive without working headlights, and ensure your seat belt and airbags are working.

Tip #7: Obey Road Signs 

Be attentive to DO NOT ENTER and WRONG WAY signs, particularly in low-visibility conditions and when driving on a one-way street.

When You Can’t Avoid Collision Risks, Turn to Formula 1 Collision Center 

Even if you know how to avoid head-on collisions, accidents can happen. Call the Formula 1 Collision Center at 520 369-4291 if your car sustains damage in an accident. No matter what causes collision damage, we will do everything we can to get your vehicle back on the road safely.