The holiday season is one of the happiest times of the year for many people. Unfortunately, it’s also a time for increased vehicle accidents on the road. When you’re behind the wheel this season, be extra cautious. Here are a few ways to reduce your risk of getting into a car accident during the holidays.
Get Rid of Distractions
While it’s always a good idea to avoid distractions when behind the wheel, it’s especially important during the holiday season. There’s heavier traffic now, and some of the drivers may be from out of town and aren’t familiar with the roads. If you’re responding to a text message or changing the radio station, you might not notice another motorist driving erratically.
Plan Ahead for Longer Road Trips
If you’re driving to see family or friends who live out of town, it’s wise to be prepared. Familiarize yourself with the directions, get plenty of sleep to prevent drowsiness and check the weather forecast ahead of time. Taking these extra steps may help reduce your risk of getting into a vehicle accident.
Be Mindful About How Many Alcoholic Beverages You Consume
Whether you’re at a family gathering or work holiday event, you may want to enjoy a cocktail or two. However, if you plan on driving home afterward, you must be especially mindful about how much alcohol you drink. If you have too much to drink, it can impair your judgment and increase your chances of getting into an accident. If you don’t think that you can safely drive home, ask a sober person to drive.
Avoid Driving During Bad Weather
Winter weather conditions, like snow and ice, can make it more difficult to drive safely on the road. If possible, try to avoid driving when the weather conditions are very bad. If you can’t avoid it, leave extra early to your destination and drive slower than usual.
Drive When It’s Light Out
The risk of getting into a car accident increases when it gets dark outside because there is less visibility. The days are shorter now, but try to limit your time on the road once the sun goes down.
