Plan Ahead With These 6 Tips for Safe Holiday Travel by Road
The holiday season is fast approaching and AAA predicts that 41.5 million Americans will hit the road on Thanksgiving Day alone. This means more drivers on the roads and a greater chance of accidents during what is already known as one of the most dangerous travel times of the year. Driving safety experts at AAA want motorists to arrive at their destinations safely and be able to enjoy holiday festivities with friends and family.
Here are these 6 Tips for Safe Holiday Travel by Road:
Avoid Alcohol:
More than a third of road fatalities during the month of December are due to alcohol-impaired driving. Not only does drinking impair judgment, reaction times and overall motor skills, it also impairs sleepiness. That is why it is important to stay hydrated with plenty of water or non-alcoholic drinks while on the road, especially in colder weather when fatigue can set in more easily.
Stay Alert:
Driving is exhausting, not just because of the long distances but also because you have to remain alert for long periods of time. Fatigue can lead to slower reaction times and lapses in attention which increases your risk of getting into an accident. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to combat fatigue and stay safe behind the wheel:
· Get plenty of sleep before your long-distance trip; quality rest is essential for proper muscle function and reaction times. If possible, travel overnight and get at least five hours of sleep.
· Avoid medications that cause drowsiness such as cold medicine or antihistamines.
· If you become fatigued, stop for a quick nap (15-20 minutes) so you don’t crash and burn later on in your trip.
Sign Up For AAA Emergency Road Service:
Exhausted drivers who experience car trouble far from home can call 1-800-AAA-HELP and a tow truck will be dispatched within minutes. AAA’s fully stocked trucks and trained technicians provide towing, battery jumps, flat tire changes and fuel delivery with minimal interruption.
Keep Your Vehicle In Good Shape:
Check your vehicle before you leave for your holiday excursion. Make sure that all the fluids are topped off; if possible take it in for an oil change before taking off. If you’re already on the road carry plenty of water (one gallon per person), nonperishable food such as granola bars, blankets, flares and a flashlight in case you break down or become stranded in bad weather. Come prepared with important phone numbers like police and AAA roadside assistance in case of emergencies.
Travel at Low Speeds:
The faster you drive the more likely you are to be involved in a collision. It is recommended that motorists keep their speed 10 MPH below the posted minimum and 20 MPH below the limit in hazardous conditions. Not only will this lessen your chance of an accident, but it also means that your car will not need as much stopping distance when you do have to hit the brakes.
If All Else Fails:
If all else fails and there isn’t another car in sight, drivers should make sure they aren’t drifting out of their lane before attempting any risky moves such as turning on their hazard lights or pulling over to check for damage. For additional safety tips and advice please visit AAA’s official website.
FAQs:
Why is it more dangerous to drive during the holidays?
The holiday season is high-risk for motorists due to a number of factors. More people are out on the roads, which increases the potential for collisions. People sometimes overindulge in food and alcohol or do not get enough sleep prior to or during their holiday travel. And there are many distractions that can take your focus off the road for just an instant but long enough to cause a tragedy.
What are some tips for drivers?
Remember “The Four Fs” – Focus, Fatigue, Family and Fun! And do not forget about how important it is to stay hydrated with plenty of water or non-alcoholic drinks while on the road, especially in colder weather when fatigue can set in more easily.
What are some tips for passengers?
Keep your eyes on the road, not the GPS or other devices you may be holding. If necessary, ask someone to take over driving so that you are free to have fun with family and friends.
Remember, don’t drink and drive! Have a designated driver that will get everyone home safely by avoiding accidents caused by impaired drivers this holiday season. Stay Woke! Drive Sober!
Conclusion:
As the old adage goes, a little preparation can go a long way. If you take a few simple steps ahead of time to make sure you are as safe as possible on the road, then it will be smooth sailing all the way from your front door to grandma’s house and back again. In addition, if one is traveling during this period, whether out of town or state, make sure there is adequate planning involved in regards to hotel/motel accommodations and transportation arrangements beforehand so that there isn’t any added stress at the very last minute – just in case – anything unexpected should happen.