Nothing says Thanksgiving like traffic. Each year, millions of Americans hop in the car to gather for the annual turkey dinner celebration. Whether you travel across the country or just across town, you should be aware of the increased traffic and the dangers that can threaten all road travelers. Here are a few tips to keep you safe as you travel to and from your holiday festivities. The holiday should not be marred by a car accident.
Tips to Stay Safe on the Road
Give the car a check-up. Before a long drive, you should have a mechanic give your car a once-over. Be sure your tires and brakes are in good shape. Address any wear and tear before it becomes a problem.
Pack safely. If your trek requires packing up the car, be sure the weight of the stocked-up vehicle does not exceed its limits. Ensure that your load does not obstruct the driver’s view and that you can see out of all windows. Be sure that loose objects are secured so that they do not become projectiles in the event of an accident. Also, remember to pack activities for the little ones, snacks for all, and an emergency kit, just in case.
Buckle up. The first thing every car occupant should do is buckle into a seat belt. Small children should be secured into a car seat appropriate for their size and weight. These devices are your best chance of surviving a collision. Put simply, they save lives.
Mind your speed. Speeding is a factor in about one-third of fatal car accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Speeding not only increases your chances of losing control of your vehicle, but also creates conditions that make accidents more dangerous, as the higher speed increases the force of a collision.
Stay focused on the road. Distracted driving is a big problem in this country. Staying safe while driving means keeping your attention on the road instead of your phone. Other dangerous driving distractions include adjusting the radio, eating, programming a GPS system, and even holding a conversation that diverts a driver’s attention.
Do not drive groggy. Whether the cause is late nights, the exhaustion of travel, or too much turkey, being tired does not go well with driving. Being sleepy can have the same effects on drivers as having too much alcohol. Drowsy driving affects drivers’ concentration and reaction time. Be sure to get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel.
Avoid driving drunk. If you are planning to drink alcohol this Thanksgiving, be sure to make arrangements to avoid having to drive. Get a ride from a friend or relative, or call a ride service to get you home safely.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Help People Who Have Sustained Injuries in an Accident
If you were injured in a car accident, you may be able to claim damages to pay for your medical bills or other losses that resulted from another person’s negligence. Reach out to the Media car accident lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello to learn how we can help you understand your situation from a legal perspective. We may be able to help you recover significant compensation to cover the damages you suffered in the accident. Learn more at a free consultation by filling out an online registration form or calling (610) 892-4940. Our office is in Media, Pennsylvania. We represent clients in Media, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, West Chester, and throughout Pennsylvania.
