Traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday to visit family and friends is a great tradition and a lot of fun, but every year during the busy season, worsening weather and increasing road traffic result in accidents and injuries that can put a damper on the holiday spirit. While you’re making plans for celebrations this year, be sure to follow these holiday driving safety tips and take a little time to prepare for safe and smooth travels to and from those celebrations as well! The team at Thompson Law wants you and your family to stay safe on the roads this holiday season by following the holiday driving safety tips outlined below.
Chaos and last-minute decisions can contribute to frantic actions, aggressive driving, and speeding while attempting to reach your destination on time. Even though it’s a hectic time of year, you’ll thank yourself for setting aside some time in advance to avoid a crunch. List and plan all that you need to accomplish and time out your schedule to make sure you can make it all happen. Don’t forget that the schedule should include extra time for heavy traffic, driving breaks, and adequate sleep!
Many people travel long distances to visit friends and family at this time of year. If you know you are headed to an unfamiliar climate, especially one that is colder and snowier than yours, prepare yourself to drive in those conditions. Icy roads and precipitation require lower speeds and more cautious handling. Similarly, make sure your vehicle is prepared for those conditions, which leads us to the next tip…
Whether you are traveling long distances or visiting loved ones nearby, it’s a good idea to take your vehicle for a check-up as we enter the winter months. Changes in temperature and humidity can impact the way your car is functioning. And, as days are getting shorter and more nighttime driving is necessary, you will want the peace of mind that your car is running great.
Have a trusted mechanic check out the car and remember to have any burned out lights or worn out wiper blades replaced, test the battery, get regular oil changes and take care of your car’s other routine maintenance needs. No one ever wants to break down, but especially not while away from home on a happy thanksgiving!
In addition to ensuring your vehicle is operating at it’s best, be sure to use it safely yourself. When packing suitcases, families, pets, coolers, and more in the car as you get ready to head to Grandma’s, make sure to balance the load you are bringing and allow the driver lines of sight out of the windows and mirrors. If you have cargo in a pickup bed, trailer, or anything on top of the car, make sure it is well-secured, so you don’t send your possessions flying at the other cars sharing your roadway.
When you’re packing your belongings, presents and holiday treats, remember to pack an emergency kit as well. Carrying supplies like jumper cables, a tool kit, spare tire equipment, and a working flashlight can be crucial to making it safely to your destination. The National Safety Council has a list of recommended items to travel with here, but if you really want to go all–out in the name of safety there are great resources to help.
Finally, the best thing you can do to ensure your loved ones’ safety on the roads this year is practice not only defensive but extra-defensive driving. Holiday chaos can bring out the worst in some drivers, but you can help offset aggressive and dangerous driving behavior by practicing caution and patience when you set out for your destination.
Stay vigilant, avoid distractions like texting or eating while you drive, leave a cushion between your car and the vehicles around you, follow speed limits and adapt for bad weather, and most importantly, make sure everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt.
Many factors contribute to the accident spikes we see during the Thanksgiving holiday, but heavy traffic and inebriated drivers are two of the main contributors to serious injuries and fatalities. Be a cautious driver during this time, and if you are involved in an accident, call Thompson Law.
We are here to help you with legal advice, managing your claim, and fighting for your maximum deserved settlement. Even during the holidays, we have team members available to help at any time of the day or night. We strive to provide you peace of mind, no matter when you need us. From our family to yours, we wish you a very safe and happy Thanksgiving.
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