What are Some Important Driving Tips for Thanksgiving?
Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many families will be forgoing their usual holiday plans. Some families will gather virtually to share the meal with their loved ones. Other families have adjusted their in-person plans in an attempt to gather safely.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has many suggestions for ways to mitigate the risks of spreading the virus, such as quarantining or getting tested prior to holiday events. One additional danger that everyone should keep in mind is road travel. Road risks are prevalent throughout the year, but the dangers are especially relevant around Thanksgiving.
While Thanksgiving is going to be different in many ways, the same precautions should be taken while traveling in order to prevent a car accident. A few ways to keep safe includes the following:
Prepare the Vehicle
Due to virus-related health risks, it is especially important to prepare well for travel this year. Those who plan well can avoid unnecessary stops and exposures, which is important for those travelling through COVID-19 hot spots. Pack the car with emergency essentials, like a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and other tools, as well as jumper cables. A good emergency kit includes a flashlight, blanket, first aid kit, and flares.
Have COVID-19 Essentials
Having plenty of water and non-perishable foods is important, especially this year. Having supplies will lessen the amount of stops along the route, which will help eliminate COVID-19 exposure and also helps the driver prepare for an emergency. Whether the travel destination is a few blocks away or across state lines, a well-prepared vehicle should have a stash of hand sanitizer products and disinfectant wipes.
Plan Ahead
With the availability of navigational devices, planning routes has become easier. It is essential for a motorist to know where they are headed before driving. Having charted the route can give drivers a sense of what to expect, especially when it comes to unfamiliar detours or possible bad weather. Drivers that familiarize themselves with the route are better equipped for travel.
Fasten Seat Belts
Traffic safety advocates consistently note that using a seat belt properly makes a significant difference in the likelihood of being seriously hurt or killed in a crash. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) is making a specific push this Thanksgiving to remind people that using a seat belt is crucial, especially at night. According to the DOT, 57 percent of people killed in nighttime crashes were not wearing seat belts, compared to 40 percent of deaths that were attributed to lack of seat belts during the day.
Avoid All Distractions
A driver must keep their focus on the road in order to prevent a distracted driving accident. Using a cellphone is one of the most common distractions, it can be tempting to communicate with others. Drivers should remain aware of the fact that distractions can quickly turn deadly. It is best to make calls, send texts, or program map services before the driving begins. If one must use a cellphone or attend to something other than driving, they should safely pull over.
Follow the Driving Laws
It is vital to always obey traffic laws, especially during the holiday season. A driver should keep in mind that they are operating a huge machine with the power to cause severe harm. This serious undertaking comes with responsibilities.
Some important driving tips include:
- A driver must not follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of them.
- A motorist must yield appropriately to avoid confusion.
- It is important to drive defensively.
- Obey all road signs and signals to keep everyone safe.
- Maintain a safe speed, especially if road conditions become challenging.
Being mindful and observant of road safety rules is the best way for drivers to keep the roads safe.
Hire a Lawyer After an Accident
Even with extra precautions, a driver still can get into a car accident. After a collision, speaking to a lawyer is advantageous. A lawyer can help the victim evaluate the situation to understand if they are eligible to file a personal injury claim for compensation. One may be able to collect money to pay for medical bills for any injuries. If injuries are severe, a victim may be able to recover lost wages or other damages. A lawyer can maximize awards for the car accident victim.
Highland Park Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Help Car Accident Victims Seek Damages
If you were recently injured in a car accident, you may have a case for damages against the at-fault driver, depending on the circumstances. Our Highland Park car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr can help you with your case. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us 732-537-8570 today. Located in Highland Park, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
