Safe Traveling During the Holidays
As the holiday season is approaching, it is an exciting time for family and friends to get together. Don’t let the enjoyment of these special times be tainted with tragedy due to a death or injury caused by a traffic accident. During the holiday season, motorists need to be mindful of actions that will make their holiday travel safer. Drivers can protect themselves and their passengers by following these holiday travel rules.
Before you start your trip, make sure your vehicle is tuned up and in good shape for travel. This is especially important for winter driving conditions.
Restrain yourself and your passengers properly in seat belts and car safety seats. Remember, the rear seat is the safest place for children of any age to ride..
Be flexible in setting your travel plans. Leave early if you can to avoid the peak traffic hours. If heavy snow is predicted during the time you plan to travel, change your schedule. It is better to reschedule your get-together than to risk the lives of traveling family or friends.
Stay fresh and alert when driving. Take plenty of breaks and do not push yourself to meet an unrealistic schedule. If you get tired, pull off the road in a safe spot for a rest, get out of the car for some fresh air, or buy something to refresh you, until you feel revived. Forty-one percent of fatal traffic accidents are single vehicle crashes. These crashes most often occur during the late night/early morning hours and the late afternoon hours to drivers who are tired, have consumed alcohol, or both.
Keep your speed down. Give yourself plenty of time and distance to react to the traffic around you. Clear snow from all windows, side mirrors, and the roof of your vehicle. Keep headlights and tail lights clean – Dark winter days make it more difficult to see other motorists and pedestrians.
If there will be drinking at your holiday get-together, choose a designated driver who will remain alcohol free,
because driving requires your full attention, pull off the road if you have to use your cellular phone.
Carry a driving emergency kit – a blanket, flashlight, candles, matches, jumper cables and a shovel in your trunk. Kitty litter or sand is also useful to gain traction if you happen to get stuck.
Holidays are happy times filled of fond memories; follow the above safety tips to ensure that they stay that way. Vargas & Vargas Insurance wishes you and yours a very happy and safe holiday season!
