Driving during the holidays can increase your risk of being involved in a car accident.The increase in traffic accidents during the holidays can be attributed to several reasons. For instance,there are more cars on the road during the holiday shopping season. In addition, people travel during the holidays to spend time with family and friends.
Another reason for an increase in traffic accidents during the holidays is an increase in the number of DUI incidents and buzzed driving incidents from Blackout Wednesday(the day before Thanksgiving) through the New Year’s Day holiday.
Regardless of the reason why car accidents may increase during the holidays, you need to ensure you are prepared for any emergency that may arise if you are planning a holiday road trip.
Tips for Preparing for a Holiday Road Trip
AAAExchange and Consumer Reports offer several tips for preparing for a holiday road trip.Some of those tips and additional tips for a safe holiday road trip include:
- Prepare for the weather you will be driving in during the entire trip. In addition to checking the weather for your present location and your destination, check the weather for the route you will be driving. You need to ensure that you are prepared for driving conditions that could change during as you travel to your destination.
- Schedule a maintenance appointment for your vehicle. You need to have your vehicle serviced before a road trip. Make sure that the technician checks the tires, brakes, steering system, fluids, hoses, lights, windshield wipers, and other essential components and systems.
- Map your route in advance and check the route for peak driving times. Try to avoid driving through areas that are congested with traffic during peak driving times.
- Make sure that you have the current roadside assistance information in your vehicle, including your vehicle insurance information and the vehicle’s current registration.
- Get plenty of sleep the night before your road trip. If possible, share driving responsibilities with another adult so that you do not become overly fatigued or drowsy.
- Take plenty of breaks during your road trip. It is important to remain alert while driving. Driving long distances without breaks can increase the risk you become distracted while driving.
- Always wear seatbelts and use appropriate child safety restraints.
- Carry a portable battery charger for your cell phone in case you are stranded.
- Check to ensure your car emergency kit is up-to-date. You need basic first aid supplies, flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, water, protein snacks, hand sanitizer, road flares, blanket, and a fire extinguisher.
- Do not block your view with packages and suitcases. You need to see clearly from all windows and mirrors.
- Pack snacks and activities for children to keep them entertained during long road trips.
Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney for Help
If you are injured in a holiday car accident, the New Orleans car accident lawyers of The Olinde Firm are here to help. Call Attorney Fred Olinde at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney.