With Thanksgiving behind us and Christmas ahead of us, most people are in the holiday spirit. While this is one of the most exciting times of the year, it can be ruined within seconds if involved in a crash. In fact, there’s nothing worse than a car accident to kill the spirit of the holidays. Unfortunately, the reality is that many traffic accidents occur over the holiday travel periods due to the following reasons:

  • Drunk driving. Many people attend Christmas and New Year’s parties and consume alcohol. They then proceed to get behind of the wheel of their cars to drive home. Sadly, many people die every year on Christmas due to drunk driving accidents. In order to not become an alcohol-related crash statistic, plan on spending the night after the party, taking a taxi cab home, or designating a sober driver.
  • Drowsy driving. Many drivers stay out too late in order to spend every single second they can with their loved ones before driving home. As a result, they are often too tired to stay alert and drive safely. The same can be said for those drivers who get up in the wee hours of the morning to drive to their destinations or head home. In order to stay safe and not be involved in a drowsy-driving accident this holiday season, make sure you get plenty of sleep before hitting the road.
  • Inclement weather. Many people tend to drive the same speeds even when it is rainy or foggy. If you find yourself driving in difficult conditions, make sure you leave plenty of room when following another car. Also, don’t be in a hurry to get to your destination. Instead, be patient, slow down, and drive safely.

Because traffic accidents are more common during the holiday season—due to the fact that more people are irresponsible on the roads—you can decrease your chances of being in a car crash by following the tips above. Other traffic tips for this 2014 holiday season include:

  • Getting your car serviced prior to a road trip
  • Checking your tire wear and pressure
  • Mapping out your travels
  • Planning ahead
  • Wearing your seat belt
  • Driving the speed limit
  • Refraining from texting and driving or participating in any type of distracted driving.

“But It Wasn’t My Fault!”

All the safety planning in the world won’t prevent a traffic accident if the other driver acts negligently. If you or your passenger have been injured in a collision that wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burdens that follow. Contact us using the instant chat function on this page, or order a FREE copy of our helpful book, What You Need to Know After a Florida Auto, Truck or Bike Accident.
 

Damian Mallard, Esq.
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Board Certified Sarasota Personal Injury Attorney