Travel Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

November and December are among the busiest months on highways and interstates nationwide. The vast majority of people are travelling to visit family and friends during the holidays. With more cars on the road and adverse weather conditions, there are more opportunities for car accidents. Safety should be a significant concern for all motorists this time of year. The following travel safety tips may help reduce your risk of an auto accident during the holidays.

Get Enough Sleep: Drunk and Drowsy Driving Are Similar

Lack of sleep is one of the greatest dangers for motorists taking long road trips. Drowsiness can significantly raise your chances of being involved in an accident. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety released a report earlier this month linking drunk and drowsy driving. According to the study, motorists driving on four to five hours of sleep show impairment similar to a blood alcohol content of .08, the legal limit. AAA also claims that missing one or two hours of sleep per night can quadruple the risk of being involved in an accident. People who get less than 4 hours of sleep are 12 times more likely to crash. The National Sleep Foundation recommends getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep before setting out on a trip and avoiding sleep medications or alcohol the night before departure. If you notice symptoms of drowsiness, such as heavy eyelids, yawning or difficulty focusing, pull over and rest or let someone else drive.

Make Sure Your Vehicle is Safe to Drive

Your vehicle cannot protect you if certain parts are not in working condition. Before setting out on a trip, it is wise to receive a tune-up. A qualified mechanic can check your brakes and pads, head and tail lights, car battery, tires, and fluids. If you have young children, the week before a road trip is a good time to check the effectiveness of booster seats. An estimated 8 in 10 parents do not know whether their booster seats are installed correctly. Some police and fire departments can perform checks. Local Texas Department of Transportation offices may also help parents with car seat issues.

Always Remember to Drive Safely During Your Trip

Long-distance driving requires extra attentiveness to road etiquette and safety. Use extra caution while traveling through work zones. Pay careful attention to speed limits during your travels. Always avoid distractions, such as mobile phones, eating, or applying makeup. There are also driving etiquette rules that can improve your safety. Never tailgate other drivers, and do not drive in the left-hand passing lane. National Safety Council statistics show more than 700 people die in car accidents every year between Christmas and New Year’s. The best way to avoid an accident is to take preventive action and plan. The Texas personal injury attorneys at Mike Love & Associates, LLC, wish everyone a happy holiday season. Please stay safe!