Follow These Tips for Safer Driving in Holiday Traffic

With the holidays coming up, families and friends are making plans to gather together to celebrate. For many, this means packing up the car and hitting the road. As many people are already familiar, holiday road trips almost always come with a healthy dose of holiday traffic. Between the quantity of people on the road and the winter weather, drivers must be extra cautious to reduce their chances of being involved in an accident.

This holiday season, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help your family arrive safely at your destination:

• Maintain your vehicle. Before you leave on your trip, it is important that you ensure that your car is tuned up and in good repair. Many accidents occur as a result of a maintenance issue, like old tires or worn brakes. Make sure that your windshield wipers are in good working order and that you have wiper fluid that can withstand cold temperatures.
• Use seatbelts. Drivers and passengers should always wear seatbelts in the car. Small children should be restrained in car seats or booster seats appropriate for their size and weight.
• Stay alert. If your trip is a long one, be sure to budget in time for breaks. Stop at rest areas when you get tired. More than 100,000 accidents are caused by fatigued driving each year, so remember not to push yourself to meet a schedule that is unrealistic.
• Avoid distractions. Driving requires a person’s full attention. Eating, using a cell phone, texting, reading maps, or even listening to loud music are distractions that are well known for causing accidents.
• Be flexible. If possible, leave early to avoid driving during peak traffic times. If snow is predicted, change your travel schedule. It is not worth the risk to yourself or your family to travel when road conditions are unsafe.
• Drive at a safe speed. Always drive within the speed limit, especially during winter weather. Give yourself enough distance and time to react to other drivers around you, especially those who are aggressive or impatient, so that you are always in control of the situation.
• Do not pass. If you cannot see enough road clearly to pass safely, avoid passing other vehicles.
• Don’t drink and drive. If your holiday gathering will include alcohol, it is important that you designate a driver who will remain alcohol-free for your trip.

By following these tips, you can greatly improve the safety of you and your family as you travel to your holiday destinations. Goodman Acker P.C. wishes you safe travels and a happy holiday season!

Been involved in a car accident caused by another driver? Get in touch with a Detroit car accident lawyer today to see if you are eligible to file a personal injury claim. Schedule a free consultation by calling (248) 793-2010.