The holiday season is a time filled with joy, family time and good tidings. For most people, being able to enjoy these things requires an abundance of travel. Depending on what part of the country you live in, driving during the holiday season can present challenges that you would not have to face at any other time during the year. Some of these challenges include weather conditions, distracted driving, limited daylight and driving in unfamiliar areas. Here are five tips that will help you avoid these dangers and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.
Tip #1: Inspect Your Vehicle
Before getting on the road, is extremely important to inspect your vehicle ensuring that it is fully equipped for the drive. Make sure that all your lights are working properly and all fluid levels are normal. Also, be sure to do other simple things such as check your tires, tire pressure and appropriately warming up your car based on the climate before getting on the road. Additionally, clear all the windows of any snow or debris so that nothing hinders your vision while on the road.
Tip #2: Plan Ahead
It is also very important to prepare before travel during the holiday season, especially if you live in an area that typically gets heavy snow during the holidays. Be sure to check the weather before driving, ensuring that the roads will be safe to drive on. If you live in a cold climate, dangers increase exponentially because of the slippery conditions caused by snow and ice during this time of year. Also, be sure to map out the route that you are going to take and leave plenty of time left over so you are not forced to rush. Also, prepare for a possible emergency scenario with shovels, blankets and water in case of emergency.
Tip #3: Get Proper Rest
Driving through the holiday season is proven to be more physically and mentally demanding than any other time of the year. Make sure that you are well rested before driving during this time of year so that you are as fresh and alert as possible while behind the wheel. If possible, plan to drive with someone else who is capable of driving so that you can take breaks periodically to avoid drowsiness. Staying sharp behind the wheel at all times is a requirement for performing safe travel, especially around the holidays.
Tip #4: Drive Defensively
While driving around the holidays, driving cautiously is extremely important for the safety of the people in your car and others on the road. Traffic and slow driving can be aggravating at times. Because everyone seems to be in a rush to get to their destinations around the holidays, there tends to be increased speeds and aggression behind the wheel, making holiday roads significantly more dangerous. Put the safety of everyone in your car first by driving the speed limit, taking your time, allowing other people to pass you and avoiding driving with emotion.
Tip #5: Avoid Distractions
The holiday season often brings increased distractions adding onto the heavy traffic and bad weather conditions that come with driving around the holidays. Distracted driving is by far the leading cause of fatal crashes in the U.S.. Looking down at your phone for five seconds while driving 55 mph can be compared to driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed. If you need to answer a text or do anything that is going to take your eyes off the road, simply pull off to the side of the road or even to the nearest gas station. The five minutes spent parked on the side of the road is a small price to pay to avoid a fatal car crash. Safe driving always requires your full attention to keep you and the rest of the people in your car safe.
If you or someone you love is injured in an auto crash during the holidays, or any other time of the year, call the experience attorneys at Femminineo Law to help you recover the damages you deserve. Call now at 855.65.CRASH or contact us today.
