Traveling for the holidays presents many challenges, especially when dealing with heavy traffic and major delays. Without the proper precautions, accidents may occur and cause a need for a personal injury attorney. Keep you and your passengers safe by considering the following tips before hitting the road.

4 Tips for Driving Safely During the Holiday Season

1. Don’t Drink & Drive

If you plan to drink at a small holiday get-together, switch to water a few hours before leaving. This will give the alcohol time to work its way from your system and reduce the risk of driving impaired.

Another option is to book a rideshare service. Designate a time and place for the pickup, and the driver will be ready to give you a lift home.

2. Avoid Distractions

Distractions, like responding to a text and finding a song to play, are a leading cause of auto accidents. To stay focused on the road, mute message notifications, don’t take calls behind the wheel, and choose a playlist before driving. This will ensure you have plenty of time to slow and dodge an obstacle.

3. Stay Alert

Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re feeling tired, so ask the host about spending the night. If you’re holiday shopping with friends or family, let someone else drive home if you’re spent from bargain hunting. If you’re alone, take a few moments in the car to rest before heading out.

4. Maintain Distance

It’s challenging to anticipate what other drivers are going to do, and staying close behind them can cause an accident and a need for a personal injury attorney. Be safe by maintaining at least two seconds between you and the car in front—increase this to four if the roads are slick with rain or snow. If the driver makes a sudden maneuver, you’ll have ample time to slow and avoid a collision.

Driving during the holidays presents a unique set of challenges. If you get into an accident and need a personal injury attorney, turn to the team at Burglin & Doxey, PC, in Fairbanks, AK. These attorneys have provided drivers with fair representation and sound legal counsel for over 30 years, and they’ll strive to secure sufficient compensation for any damages. Get more information about their services online, or call (907) 456-4020 to schedule a consultation.

These articles are for discussion purposes only. Please contact the firm if you’re seeking legal advice.