The holiday season is a joyous time of year – a time when families and friends share good food, each other’s company, exchange gifts and give thanks for all that they have. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, the holiday season is meant to be a happy time of year, which is usually the case for most. Unfortunately, however, not everyone experiences a positive holiday season.
The reality is that, with more drivers on the road, your odds of getting in a motor vehicle accident significantly increase during the holidays. Moreover, with parties and social gatherings, there are unfortunately more instances of drunk drivers during the holiday season. A motor vehicle accident can ruin your holiday season and end the year on a poor note. The following tips can help you enjoy a safe and pleasant holiday season, and avoid a personal injury crisis during what is supposed to be a celebratory time of year.
Allow Yourself Extra Time
Whether you’re traveling to your in-laws or parents’ house for the holidays, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Many drivers make the mistake of not doing so, and as a result, speed to avoid being late. Drivers should give themselves twice as much time as they think they need and also avoid heavier driving times to beat the traffic.
Watch Out for Drunk Drivers
As mentioned, the holiday season, especially New Year’s, usually yields more DUIs than any other time of year. With more drunk drivers on the road, safe drivers must remain vigilant for erratic or reckless driving. If you encounter a driver swerving or reacting slower than other drivers, there is a good chance that they are driving under the influence. Stay far away from drunk drivers – and if you’re concerned for your and other drivers’ safety, contact the police to report them.
Plan Ahead and Take Breaks
Are you traveling a long distance this holiday season? If so, you may want to pack a travel kit with snacks, beverages and any other essentials to make your drive more comfortable. If it will take multiple hours to reach your destination, plan some breaks every couple of hours or as needed. Taking a break to use the bathroom or just stretch your legs will help you stay refreshed and focused on the road.
It’s also worth packing an emergency kit containing a spare tire, jack, jumper cables and flares in the event that your vehicle breaks down. Also, be sure to install The Accident App by Resmini Law, LLC. on your smartphone prior to embarking on your journey.
Attorney Wayne G. Resmini and the entire Resmini Law, LLC. office would like to wish all of its clients a safe and happy holiday season!