One of the best ways to treat your family on holidays is to simply give them an out of town road trip or a tour around town. And everyone could be spending the same way so it’s not a surprise if you get stuck in traffic or travel slow during this season. You should also be aware that accidents could happen particularly on the highways or on snowy and icy roads.
Remember that safety should be your first priority when traveling in a car with your family and friends.
Here are 6 Safety Travel Tips you should include in your holiday trip:
Safety Tip #1:
If you are planning a long trip, make sure you get a good rest the night before the trip so you stay alerted while driving. Also, check the weather forecast and active traffic advisories. If the weather condition gets worst, don’t drive unless it’s necessary. The Turnpike often restricts travelers, if necessary.
Safety Tip #2:
Always check your vehicle, remove ice and snow. Make sure you check the brakes, tires, windshield wipers, headlights and taillights, steering system and engine. Accidents can be due to maintenance failures.
Safety Tip #3:
When traveling around town or across the state, avoid tailgating and always allow plenty of stopping distance when there’s a vehicle ahead of you especially when you are planning to take a trip in the evening.
Weather conditions can be fast-changing during this season so it’s best to be prepared at all times. Extra caution is very useful when crossing bridges and ramps where ice formation can build unnoticeably and without a warning.
Safety Tip #4:
During a storm, the posted speed is usually too fast and maybe even difficult to maneuver so it’s always best to slow down to a very safe speed. If possible, do cross or pass an active snow plow. and other types of commercial and passenger vehicles.
The speed limit on the PA Turnpike will be lowered to 45 mph during a storm. In addition, the Turnpike will impose bans on empty and double trailers and other types of commercial and passenger vehicles.
Safety Tip #5:
Take time to plan ahead. If you are traveling to an unfamiliar territory, it is best to rely on your smartphone or GPS device. But before you leave, try to familiarize the route so you won’t have to rely on looking at the device or map while you drive. Pull over when you have to so that you can avoid losing your focus in driving.
Safety Tip #6:
Don’t drink and drive or even get distracted while driving. Buckle up and focus on driving. It’s very critical to travel in a bad weather and if you’re already on your way home or on the road, make you put your seatbelt on and your smartphone down.
Accidents do happen especially when driving under the influence. Statistically, drunk driving increase between Thanksgiving up to New Year’s Day. It can be a hassle but you must avoid driving while you are intoxicated not just on holidays but at all times.
Extra Tip:
Always bring a small snow shovel, flashlight, spare battery cables, blanket, tire chains, warning devices and a first-aid kit. These things might be useful when you get into trouble along the way.
Don’t let accidents ruin your holiday! If by any chance you encounter an accident by a reckless driver, consult a Personal Injury Attorney that can help you compensate for the damages.
