Holiday Driving Safety Tips
Stay Safe By Following These Helpful Holiday Driving Tips!
The number of Americans who travel by car for Thanksgiving is increasing as they avoid crowded airports and long lines. AAA predicts 54.6 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving. Even though driving can be convenient and less expensive than flying, it can also be stressful due to traffic, weather conditions, and fellow holiday drivers.
You need to be conscious of your actions and know how to maximize your safety and those around you. The holidays are an excellent time for family and friends to get together. In an accident, these celebrations may quickly turn into a tragedy. Other driving-related offenses, such as traffic tickets and DUIs, can ruin holiday celebrations.
The following tips will help you stay safe while driving during the holidays:
- First and Foremost, do not drink and drive. Choosing a designated driver who remains alcohol-free is a good idea if you plan to drink at your holiday gathering.
- It is a good idea to plan your route. Be aware of the weather forecast and have a plan in place.
- Make sure that your vehicle is properly maintained, in good condition for travel, and prepared for winter driving conditions.
- Remember to buckle up! Ensure you properly fasten all seat belts and car safety seats for you and your passengers.
- Always avoid fatigue. Take regular breaks, get a good night’s sleep the night before, and share the driving if you can. Pull off the road to a rest area if you get fatigued while driving.
- Make sure you have an emergency plan in place. Ensure that you have a cell phone charger with a list of emergency phone numbers.
- Maintain your full attention on the road by not texting while driving and minimizing cell phone use. If you need to use your cell phone, use a hands-free device.
- Allow yourself enough time to react to traffic by following a safe distance. Allow other drivers to pass if they are tailgating you. Trying to compete with impatient or aggressive drivers is a bad idea.
- Make sure you don’t speed. Adapt your driving to the conditions, and don’t exceed the speed limit. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Don’t lose your cool. Stay calm and take deep breaths if you are feeling stressed or irritable. Getting upset while driving a motor vehicle compromises the safety of the people around you and yourself.