Tips for Safe Highway Driving During the Holiday Season
Did you know that Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel weeks of the year? According to AAA, nearly forty-four million people annually travel for this holiday, with the vast majority traveling via car. So if you’re planning to spend this treasured American tradition in the company of far off family or friends, you can expect jam-packed roads and highways. The rush to be with loved ones can create treacherous situations, which makes this the ideal time to review tips for safe highway driving during the holiday season.
Safe Highway Driving with the 6P Rule
Are you familiar with the 6P Rule? Military and management circles swear by this adage. In short; the 6P rule is that proper prior planning prevents poor performance. This is to say; many of the difficulties you may encounter in the execution of a task can be eliminated or minimized with a bit of foresight and elbow grease. Many of the best measures you can take to stay safe on a long highway drive happen before you even get in the car.
The behavior of other drivers and the condition of their vehicles may be out of your control. But you can take proactive steps to monitor your behavior and condition as well as the condition of your vehicle. Before embarking on a long-haul highway drive, you may want to:
Get a Good Night’s Sleep Beforehand
While it sounds obvious, we often underestimate how exhausting a long drive can actually be. Did you know that drowsy driving can be frighteningly similar to drunk or impaired driving? Ensuring that you are well-rested, awake, and alert will ensure you’re in optimal condition to handle your vehicle.
Charge Your Electronics
A fully-charged cell phone can be a lifesaver on a long car ride. It can contact emergency services in case of an accident or guide you back to your route if you’re lost. You may also wish to consider investing in a phone charger for your car or an external battery.
Have Your Car Inspected
Have you kept up with routine maintenance? Gotten your oil changed? Is your tire light on? A quick trip to a mechanic can be the difference between a smooth trip and breaking down on the side of the road. You may also want to have your car equipped with snow tires if inclement weather is expected.
Carry Emergency Supplies in Your Car
A basic first-aid kit, a small toolbox, and a few road flares can go a long way towards alleviating an emergency situation. Depending on the space you have in your car, you may wish to carry more serious car repair equipment such as a jack and spare tire.
Drive Defensively for Safe Highway Driving
Defensive driving is a preventative strategy to road safety that focuses on predicting and avoiding potential risks while driving. Consider the following recommendations for driving safely, especially on interstate highways:
- Keep a Safe Following Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, giving yourself enough time to react to sudden stops or emergencies.
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Maintain your attention on the road and your surroundings.
- Observe Speed Limits: Stick to posted speed restrictions and modify your speed to road circumstances such as rain, fog, or heavy traffic.
- Use Turn Signals: Turn signals are used to communicate your intentions to other vehicles.Check Blind Spots: Regularly check blind spots by using your mirrors and turning your head to ensure safe lane changes.
- Maintain Your Lane: Avoid excessive lane changes or weaving through traffic by staying in your lane.
- Mind the Weather: Adjust your driving to weather conditions, slow down in rain or snow, and use headlights when visibility is limited.
- Respect Large Vehicles: Allow plenty of space for trucks and buses, as their bulk necessitates longer stopping distances.
- Plan Ahead: Know your route, leave early, and be prepared for lane changes and merging traffic.
- Stay Calm: Maintain an even-tempered attitude to avoid road rage. Remember that everyone on the road is responsible for their own safety.
You may minimize the risk of accidents and assure a safer ride by implementing these defensive driving habits.
If You Are Involved in an Accident
- Ensure Your Own and Other Parties’ Health – This is critical in any accident circumstance. Call 911 and, if necessary, request an ambulance.
- Exchange Contact and Insurance Information – Be courteous and friendly, but refrain from making statements admitting or implying fault in the situation.
- Document the Scene – Photographic proof of the accident scene will be essential in filing an insurance claim or pursuing further damages outside of the insurance claims procedure.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider – Find out if you’ll be liable for filing a police report, what your deductible was, and how much you’ll be responsible for paying the claim’s costs.
How Malloy Law Can Help
If you find yourself navigating the aftermath of a car accident this holiday season; don’t do it alone. Malloy Law Offices has a team of proven legal advocates standing by to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case free of charge and craft a winning strategy.