Are you planning to travel this holiday season? As the roads fill with an increased number of vehicles, the potential for accidents naturally rises. The bustling roads during this festive season demand heightened awareness and precautionary measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for you and your loved ones.
Here are a few tips for navigating the roads safely:
Leave Early and Stay Late
Minimize the impact of peak travel times by opting to depart before or after rush hour. Consider exploring alternative routes to avoid congestion. Exercise patience on the road, and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and others for a smoother and stress-free travel experience.
Track the Weather
Steer clear of challenging weather conditions when possible. If driving in inclement weather becomes unavoidable, adopt a cautious approach by reducing speed and extending the following distance. This not only provides additional reaction time, but also enhances stopping distance.
Better Late than Never
- Expect the unexpected. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
- Stay alert! For extended journeys, make it a point to take regular breaks. Consider consuming caffeine to maintain awareness on the road. If you have a travel companion, try to alternate drivers whenever feasible.
- Before you depart check your tires, windshield wipers, fluids, headlights, tail lights and brake lights. Make sure your defroster is also in working order. Keep your gas tank full, and travel with supplies such as warm blankets and bottled water.
- Buckle up! Seat belts save lives and can reduce the risk of serious injury in the event you are in an accident.
Steps to Take if Involved in an Accident
- Move vehicles involved in the accident as close to the side of the road as possible to avoid blocking traffic.
- Stay calm.
- Do not admit fault.
- Assess for injuries immediately. In case of injuries, avoid moving the person and promptly dial emergency services. Moving an injured individual without proper assistance can lead to complications and exacerbate injuries. However, if the injured party is in imminent danger, exercise caution and relocate them carefully to a safer area.
- Always call the police to assist with directing traffic, facilitate an information exchange, or write a report.
- Be sure to obtain contact information from any witnesses.
- Today, most people carry smartphones, making it easier to document an accident. Take pictures of the scene and any damages, license plates, insurance cards, driver’s licenses and vehicle identification numbers and registrations. Record the year, make, and model of all vehicles involved.
- Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible following the accident.
Reach out to an Advisor
For additional guidance on navigating safe travel during the winter and holiday season, be sure to reach out to an advisor today. Happy holidays and safe travels!