Traveling for the holidays? Taking simple precautions can help you and your family stay safe.
A report from the National Safety Council (NSC) confirms that traveling by car during the holidays has the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation.
According to statistics on Holiday Traffic Injury Facts, every year on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, hundreds of people die in crashes. In about a third of these accidents, alcohol impairment is involved.
If you have experienced a crash, understanding your legal options may reduce stress. It may provide peace of mind to ask questions and explore your options with an experienced Marietta personal injury lawyer.
Six Road Safety Tips for the Holidays in Georgia
Staying safe while traveling for the holidays starts with preparedness and alertness.
1. Prepare for Safety and Emergencies in Georgia
Before you drive on the holidays, and every day, be sure your car is ready for winter. Check tires. Check fluids. Make sure to keep an emergency kit with you.
Consumer reports recommend always having basic items in the car. A basic car emergency kit includes a cell phone, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, warning light, hazard triangle, or flares. In addition, have a mobility kit, mini-jumpers to start your car, and a flashlight.
2. Check Weather Conditions on the Route
While Georgia may not always have extreme winter weather, other states are known for snowstorms, windstorms, hail, and unpredictable conditions. Check the weather advisory to know which route to take and to be warned of changing weather patterns.
3. Avoid Driving Drowsy in Georgia
Leave early in the morning to make sure you are alert and ready to drive. If you notice that you are sleepy, do not try to tough it out. Have another person do the driving. Leaving early for a road trip can also help you stay calm and reduce stress if you encounter heavy holiday traffic.
4. Wear Your Seat Belt in Georgia
In Georgia, the slogan“Click it or Ticket” is well-known. It’s a short reminder to always put on your seat belt. It is not just the law; it can save your life. Be sure to wear your seatbelt even if you’re just driving a short distance.
5. Stay Focused On Driving in Georgia
No cellphones. No texting. No rough-housing in the car. Distracted driving is dangerous and can be deadly.
6. Designate a Sober Driver in Georgia
If you plan on being in the car after a holiday happy hour, meal, or gathering, designate a sober driver to get everyone home safely.
Driving sober means that this individual will not drink alcohol or take over-the-counter, prescription, or illegal drugs that can cause impaired driving.
If the designated driver is not able to drive, wait until the next day to get into the car. Your decision could save your life and the lives of others.
Should You Reach Out to A Marietta Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you have been injured in a car or truck accident, it can be useful to understand your legal options. A Marietta personal injury lawyer may be able to describe the legal process and explain critical deadlines for filing claims or lawsuits.