New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers Discuss Memorial Day Travel Safety
According to a recent study by the National Coalition for Safer Roads, Memorial Day weekend is one of the most dangerous times to be on the roads. There are more drivers on the road, which correlates with an increase in motor vehicle accidents. Making matters worse, drivers are eager to get away for the long weekend after the winter months. The combination of the increase in traffic volume coupled with the potential for aggressive driving can be deadly.
The study conducted by the National Coalition for Safer Roads also found that there is a particularly high number of drivers running red-lights over the holiday weekend. During recent prior Memorial Day weekends, over 2.3 million drivers in nearly half of the 50 states ran red-lights. These statistics correlate to 1.2 red-light violations every second during the Memorial Day weekend. These figures are nearly 27 percent higher than during not only an average weekend, but an average holiday weekend. The Friday that kicks off Memorial Day weekend is statistically the worst day for red-light offenses.
Although accidents can happen to anyone at any time, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from be injured in a car accident this Memorial Day weekend:
- Allow for extra travel time. Do not run through red lights, or try to speed to make it to your destination early. Before you leave, expect that there will be heavy traffic and be aware that it may take you longer than usual to get to your destination.
- Take frequent rest breaks. Many people underestimate the dangers of drowsy driving. If you are taking a long trip, get out of your car every couple of hours and stretch. This will help you stay alert while driving. Even better than stretching, park your car and take a walk or a nap if necessary.
- Keep emergency supplies on hand. Prior to embarking on your trip, check that you have jumper cables, road flares, a first aid kit, nonperishable food, water, reflective triangles, a flashlight, and extra batteries in your trunk. Make sure that your cellphone is fully charged, and keep a charger in your car. Program emergency numbers into your phone before you leave and keep a backup list on a piece of paper in your glove compartment.
- Know the best time to travel. Friday afternoon is the most dangerous time on the road. When the sun begins to set, visibility can be compromised, and people will be tired.
- Inspect your car before you go. Make sure your lights, blinkers, brakes, fluid levels, windshield wiper blades, and tires are in good condition before you embark on your trip.
- Invoke the “penny test.” At least one week before your trip, check the condition of your tires by inserting a penny into the tread grooves. If all of President Lincoln’s head can be seen, it may be time to replace the tire. Driving on worn out tires poses a risk of a dangerous blow-out.
- Check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires have less ability to grip the road, and wear out more quickly. It also reduces fuel economy. Because warm air increases tire pressure, check them in the morning before you drive the car as heat increases air pressure.
New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Pursue Compensation for Accident Victims
If you have been injured by a negligent, reckless, drowsy, or intoxicated driver, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with a seasoned New Brunswick car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr, call 877-249-4600 or contact us online.
