The holidays are a time for people to get with family, friends, and travel. But before you hit the road or take to the skies, there are some things that you can do to ensure a safe and stress-free trip. First, make sure your vehicle is in good working and safe condition. This means you should get an oil change, check the tires, and fill up the gas tank. You should also pack an emergency kit with items like a flashlight, first-aid kit, and jumper cables.
By taking a few simple precautions to stay safe, you can help make sure your holiday travel is free of harm and enjoyable.
Planning Around Rainy Weather Conditions
Driving in the rain can be difficult, especially if you're not used to it. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe on the road:
- Increase your following distance. It takes longer to stop on wet roads, so you'll need to leave more space between you and the car in front of you.
- Drive slowly. Speeding decreases your reaction time and makes it harder to control your car.
- Use your headlights. You'll be able to see better and other drivers will be able to see you.
- Avoid puddles. Puddles can hide potholes or other obstacles, and they can also cause hydroplaning - when your tires lose contact with the road and start riding on top of the water.
- Be extra careful around big trucks. Because of their size, trucks take longer to stop and have blind spots where you might not be visible. If you are unable to see the truck driver in their mirrors, they can't see you.
By following these tips, you can make driving in the rain a little easier - and a lot safer.
Avoid High-Trafficked Travel Times
Holiday travel can be a stressful experience. Between the crowds and the long lines, it can be tough to stay calm and collected. One way to minimize the stress of holiday travel is to avoid high-trafficked travel times. If you can, plan your trips for less busy times of day, or even better, travel during off-peak hours.
You'll likely find that the airports and roads are much less crowded, making for a smoother and more relaxed travel experience.
Don’t Drive Late At Night
Late at night, our streets and highways are filled with tired drivers making their way home from work or out on the town. This is a time when accidents are more likely to happen. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, and late-night drivers have an increased risk to fall asleep at the wheel.
In addition, there are fewer cars on the road late at night, making it more difficult to get help if you break down or have an accident. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid driving late at night if possible. If you must be on the road during these hours, make sure to take breaks frequently and stay alert. Driving late at night may be convenience, but it’s not worth the risk.
Our car accident lawyers at Crane Flores, LLP will be here if you need help seeking compensation.