July 30, 2024

Safety Tips for Driving on Kelly Drive in East Falls

The Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. Will Help You After a Crash

For both visitors and residents of the East Falls area, the scenic yet dangerous Kelly Drive presents potential hazards for unsuspecting drivers. At Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C., we have unfortunately seen more than our fair share of injury cases on this stretch of road. If you are planning to commute through this part of Pennsylvania, we have put together some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

What Are the Key Hazards on Kelly Drive?

Residents visit Kelly Drive for its picturesque views along the Schuylkill River, but its beauty comes with hazards: A winding road, unexpected hairpin turns, and narrow lanes can endanger drivers who fail to anticipate these road features. And to make things even more precarious, cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians often use the road, increasing the potential danger for vehicles.

How Can You Prepare Your Vehicle for Kelly Drive?

Before setting out on Kelly Drive, make sure that your brakes, tires, and steering capabilities can make the required tight turns and possible sudden stops. You may also want to check your tire pressure, as under or overinflated tires can compromise your car’s handling.

What Should You Watch Out for While Driving on Kelly Drive?

First and foremost, pay attention to all posted speed limits and adhere to them—those speed limits take the road’s winding nature and mixed-use traffic into account. And if you are driving a vehicle, keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists—especially around hairpin turns. You may not see or hear others on the other side of the turn​.

How Can You Handle Inclement Weather on Kelly Drive?

Weather conditions can make the already dangerous Kelly Drive even more hazardous: Rain can increase your car’s risk of skidding, especially on curves. Fog can decrease your visibility and reaction speed to unexpected road events. Reduce your speed intentionally during adverse weather conditions, increase the distance between you and any vehicle ahead, and—in low-visibility conditions—avoid high beams, which can reflect off the fog and reduce your visibility further.

What Should You Do if an Accident Occurs?

Even with the best defensive driving practices out there, accidents still happen. If you do find yourself in an accident on Kelly Drive, move your vehicle to the side of the road if possible to avoid blocking traffic.

Report the accident to your insurance company and to the authorities immediately, and seek medical attention even if you do not feel injured. You might not notice your injuries at first due to adrenaline.

If safe to do so, document the scene by taking pictures of any vehicle damage and the surrounding area, exchange information with the other party involved, and talk to any eyewitnesses.

Then, consider contacting an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer if you believe you need to file a claim for damages. Especially if the other involved parties dispute your version of the events, a dedicated attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities, advocate on your behalf, and help you receive appropriate compensation for any injuries or damages.

What Are Some Long-Term Safety Tips?

To prevent future accidents and protect yourself and your loved ones, stay up to date on your vehicle’s inspection and maintenance, stay informed about local traffic patterns and accidents, and keep an eye on the weather. You should always practice defensive driving techniques on any road, especially in an accident-prone area like Kelly Drive.

The Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. Will Help You After a Crash

If you or a loved one got into a car accident on Kelly Drive or a nearby area, the experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. are here to help. We will advocate on your behalf. For a free consultation, call us at 267-861-7100 or complete our online form. Our offices in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, serve clients throughout Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown. We look forward to serving you, too!