Road Safety Tips for Holiday Travelers
Whether you plan on driving across town or across the state, most of us will spend at least some of our time visiting family and friends over the holiday season. Unfortunately, with the increase in holiday shoppers, revelers, and visitors from other areas, there is an increased risk for holiday car accidents and injuries from Thanksgiving on through to the New Year. While you cannot control the behavior of other drivers, you can increase the odds that both you and your passengers get to your destination safely by being aware of the dangers and taking a few extra precautions.
Holiday Driving Accidents
While the holidays are one of the most festive times of year, full of feasting, gift giving and sharing time with family and friends, they are also one of the most dangerous times of the year to be on the road. According to a USA Today report on the most dangerous holidays, the period running from early December to just after the new year is the most crowded. This time period has the highest potential for car crashes and collisions, resulting in as many as 30,000 injuries and hundreds of deaths each year. While traffic and weather conditions do play a part in these statistics, as many as one third of all December crashes can be attributed to alcohol use, a percentage that jumps to over 40 percent on New Year’s Eve. To protect yourself over the holidays as well as throughout the year, make sure you and your loved ones avoid drinking and driving, as well as these other dangerous driving behaviors:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medication
- Driving while distracted, such as using cellphones or texting
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Driving while excessively tired or fatigued
- Aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, failing to yield, and improper passing
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Steps to Take Before Heading Out On A Holiday Road Trip
In addition to playing it safe on the road, there are steps you can take both before and during your trip to help ensure things go smoothly. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends drivers take the following precautions during holiday travel:
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained, checking tire pressure and fluid levels
- Know your route in advance, and be prepared to spend some time sitting in traffic
- Have your roadside assistance numbers handy in case of breakdowns
- Charge your cellphone fully before you go, and consider getting a charger for in your vehicle
- Pack gifts in your trunk or in a covered storage area
- If you are traveling with children, take frequent breaks and go with them into any rest stations
- Wear your seatbelt at all times, and make sure your passengers do the same
Get Help From a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one is injured in a car crash or collision, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys can advise you on how to hold responsible drivers accountable and assist you in getting the compensation you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
