7 Tips for Safe Holiday Travel
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things
Do you recognize those lyrics? It’s the opening stanza to the popular holiday song “My Favorite Things.” It’s a classic that’s played time and time again over and over again on radios throughout the holiday season. And of all the favorite things you’ll hear listed in the song, nowhere does it list travel.
Travel is the scourge of the holiday season: congested roadways, shortened tempers, and rushed schedules bring a heightened risk to everyone’s safety. Sprinkle in some bad weather and you have the perfect recipe for a terrible start to your holiday season.
To help minimize the stress and likelihood of an accident, Dallas & Turner PLLC has created a holiday travel checklist to prepare you for what lies ahead as you venture out to be with family and friends.
Ready the Car or Truck: A long trip can easily expose any problem areas with your vehicle. A basic checklist of items you’ll want to examine may include:
- Oil and filters changed (if necessary)
- Jumper cables
- Inspect for any tire damage and ensure they are properly inflated
- All fluids (windshield wiper, coolant) are capped off
- Replace worn or old windshield wipers
- Brakes are not worn or making sound
- Prepare emergency supplies, to include a warm blanket, a flashlight, a gallon of water, a spare tire, and flares
Charge Your Phone: A charged cell phone can save a trip!
Depending on your car or truck’s tech capabilities, your phone can offer GPS as well as a connection to the outside world in the event of a breakdown or emergency.
Check Weather: The holiday months bring unpredictable weather patterns that can change at moment’s notice. Be sure to regularly check forecasts that involve your travel route. Knowing what the weather may bring can help prepare you for appropriate speeds as well as be on the lookout for drivers who may not be aware of icy, wet, or snowy conditions.
(Being stuck on a roadway for 14 hours does not make for holiday cheer!)
Take Your Time: This time of year is more chaotic for everyone. It’s been said that expectations are everything. If you approach your trip with a mindset that expects delays and the unforeseen, the more likely you will be less stressed or apt to lose your temper. In addition, showing kindness toward others increases the likelihood they’ll exhibit the same courtesy to you.
Give Yourself Enough Time: Don’t leave on the dot. If you’re traveling by road or air, always leave earlier than necessary to provide a cushion of time that accounts for traffic jams and longer lines at the airport security check.
Be Fully Rested & Avoid Distractions: Before you leave for your destination, recognize your limits and don’t attempt to drive after a long week of work or visiting with friends and family until you have an appropriate amount of sleep.
Don’t attempt to text and drive and be sure that, if you have small children making the trip with you, that they have something to keep them occupied while you focus on the road.
Don’t Overindulge: A lot of people will be celebrating and partaking in an extra drink. Make sure you choose an option (Uber, taxis, designated driver, etc.) that doesn’t involve you getting behind the wheel intoxicated. And even if you choose not to drink, be aware that other drivers may very well be intoxicated and be mindful to drive defensively.
Have a Wonderful & Safe Holiday Season!
We hope that you and your family have a safe and memorable holiday season this year. If you are in need of any legal advice, you can speak with one of our Florence accident lawyers by dialing (859) 525-6161. If you prefer to write to us with the details of your potential case, you can use our online free contact form.
James Ryan Turner, Experienced Injury Lawyer in Florence, KY
"We wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and safe travels this holiday season."