These interstate driving tips will keep you safe

It doesn't matter if you enjoy driving on the interstate in South Carolina or attempt to avoid it at all costs, it's a must to follow a variety of safety tips to help prevent an accident.

With a high volume of vehicles moving at a high rate of speed, driving on the interstate is easier said than done. Here are five tips you can follow to enhance your safety:

• Obey the speed limit: It's easy to speed on the interstate, especially if the flow of traffic is moving faster than the speed limit. Rather than attempt to keep up, move into the right lane and obey the rules of the road.
• Leave more space: A safe following distance is a must, as it helps keep both you and other drivers safe. If you follow too closely, you may not have enough space to stop in the event of an emergency.
• Make yourself visible around large vehicles: For example, commercial trucks are all over the state's interstates. Do your best to remain visible at all times, such as by avoiding blind spots and using your turn signal when changing lanes.
• Don't switch lanes too often: It's okay to switch lanes when necessary, but don't make this a habit. As a general rule of thumb, use the right lane for travel and the left lane for passing.
• Avoid distractions: You can't control other drivers, but you can avoid distractions in your own vehicle. Keep your cellphone out of reach, don't engage in too much conversation with your passengers and avoid eating or drinking. These are the types of steps you can take to avoid common distractions that have been proven to increase the risk of an accident.

These safety tips will give you peace of mind, but you could still be injured in a motor vehicle accident. Other drivers may not take as much caution as you, which puts everyone on the road at risk.

If you're injured an interstate accident, move to the shoulder of the road and call 911. After you receive a diagnosis and understand your injuries, you can contact your insurance company and learn more about your legal rights. You should fight to protect your legal rights and receive the compensation you deserve.