The upcoming Thanksgiving holiday is expected to have the largest travel rush in 9 years according to AAA. They are also predicting that over 48.7 million citizens will be traveling on roadways or by air this year. It is expected that at least 1 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles over the span of a 12-day period for a holiday. This is great news for the economy but can be a little nerve-wracking for drivers who will be on the road. Some safe driving tips to remember while you are sharing the roadway with millions of other Americans heading to their holiday activities follow:
* Take your time – Be sure to allow enough time to get to your destination. Plan several stops for gas, bathroom breaks or stretching if you are traveling long distances. Being in a hurry can result in dangerous driving and accidents.
* Don’t Get Distracted – Nowadays there are so many different ways a driver can get distracted. Cell phones, iPods, controls in the car and even passengers can all be distracting. Plan ahead and use a hands-free device for phone calls, make a playlist of music before leaving and set all temperature controls before pulling onto the roadway.
* Pay Attention to Weather – Make sure to have an emergency kit available in case you get stranded. Bottles of water, blankets, jumper cables, snacks, flashlights, and batteries are a few necessities to have. Many stores sell kits to put in your trunk. As stated before, take your time especially if the roadways are hazardous. Better yet, if the weather is extreme just stay home. It’s not worth the risk of getting stranded just to taste that turkey!
* Be Alert – Always pay attention to the drivers around you. Often an accident could be avoided if the driver was alert to the situation. Be cautious of wildlife that is out at night. A deer can run in front of a vehicle and cause major damage.
Weather-related accidents and wrecks with other drivers can be scary. It is always wise to contact an attorney if you have been injured in an accident. The attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth, LLC, work closely with our clients and respect their needs. We are dedicated to each case and strive to reach a maximum recovery. Contact our office today for a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.