Safe holiday driving tips

Holiday events and celebrations can be exciting times for family and friends. You’re savoring a much needed break for school and other items have jumped up to the top of your to-do-list: parties, shopping, movies, and may even work a bit. They’ll be more teens on the road driving and given the time of year – more accidents.

Here are some tips to protect yourself and your passengers during your holiday travel.

  1. Plan ahead. Before you start your trip, make sure your vehicle is in good shape for driving in winter conditions.
  2. Buckle up! It’s the law and it’s also the smart and safe thing to do.
  3. Be flexible in setting your travel plans. Do your best to avoid peak traffic hours and if snow is predicted, change your schedule.
  4. Don’t drink and drive. Assign a designated driver before you head out. And remember, buzz driving is drunk driving.
  5. Stay fresh and alert when driving. Take plenty of breaks and don’t rush. If you’re feeling tired, pull over and hit the road again until you’re refreshed.
  6. Slow down. Accidents are more likely when you combine icy roads with high speeds.
  7. Focus on the road. Distractions are a major cause of accidents… and that includes texting, eating, drinking, changing CD or radio station, reading maps, and even having conversations when conditions are hazardous.
  8. Be aware. You know that it’s not safe (or smart) to put make-up on while you drive, but not everyone does. So be aware of distracted drivers. Always expect the unexpected and leave yourself a way out.
  9. Don’t be a “rubbernecker.” Let your passengers be the sightseers.
  10. Concentrate on driving. If conditions are hazardous, like heavy traffic or bad weather, refrain from talking to your passenger. The road needs your attention.
  11. Develop a driving emergency kit. This is especially important during winter months when snow and black ice cause accidents. Carry a blanket, flashlight, candles, matches, jumper cables and a shovel in your trunk.  Kitty litter or sand is also useful to gain traction if you happen to get stuck.

Sources:

Allstate

UPS

Iowa Department of Transportation

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