Whether you are staying in town or traveling hundreds of miles to be with family or friends, our Georgia personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry want everyone to get to and from their destinations safely this holiday season.
Tips to Help Ensure Safe Driving During the Holiday Season
Safe driving during the holidays is crucial due to increased traffic, potential adverse weather conditions, and higher incidents of impaired driving.
Here are some tips to help ensure safe driving during the holiday season:
- Plan Ahead
Travel Routes: Plan your routes, considering traffic patterns and potential road closures. Use navigation apps to stay updated on real-time traffic conditions.
Travel Times: If possible, choose off-peak travel times to avoid heavy traffic.
- Vehicle Maintenance
Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels before embarking on a long trip.
Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your car, including items like a first aid kit, flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, and basic tools.
- Weather Awareness
Check the Forecast: Stay informed about weather conditions along your route. Adjust your plans if severe weather is anticipated.
Drive Cautiously: Exercise extra caution in adverse weather conditions, like rain, snow, or ice (if traveling where the latter is common). Increase following distances and reduce speed.
- Avoid Distractions
Put Away Devices: Keep your phone out of reach while driving. If you need to use it, pull over to a safe location.
Focus on Driving: Avoid distractions like eating, grooming, or adjusting the radio while driving.
- Buckle Up
Seat Belts: Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears their seat belt properly. Seat belts are crucial for preventing injuries in case of a traffic collision.
- Drive Sober
Designate a Driver: If you attend holiday gatherings where alcohol will be served, arrange for a designated driver or use rideshare services.
Know Your Limits: If you consume alcohol, know your limits and never drive under the influence.
- Obey Traffic Laws
Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
Traffic Signals: Respect traffic signals, stop signs, and other road signs. Follow the rules of the road.
- Stay Rested
Get Adequate Rest: Fatigue can impair your reaction time and decision-making. Ensure you are well-rested before a long drive.
- Be Patient
Traffic Delays: Expect delays, especially during peak travel times. Stay patient and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
- Watch for Pedestrians
Be Alert: Watch for pedestrians, especially in busy shopping areas and residential neighborhoods.
Crosswalks: Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and adhere to traffic rules around pedestrians.
Remember that safety should be the top priority during the holiday season. By taking these precautions, you can contribute to a safer driving environment for yourself and others on the road.
Our skilled Georgia personal injury lawyers and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry hope everyone stays safe this holiday season and does not need us for any reason. However, even the safest motorists can have their lives negatively impacted by negligence without notice; if your life is turned upside down due to another person or party’s reckless behavior, contact us today at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation so we can tell your story and ensure your voice is heard by pursuing the best outcome for your unique case.