According to AAA, more than 100 million Americans travel between Christmas and New Years. Approximately 660,000 drivers are using phones or electronic devices at any given moment. Here are some ways you can stay safe driving this holiday from Sonic Automotive.
- The best day to travel is Christmas Day, December 25 as traffic is lessened. The worst days to travel are December 23 and 27.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported in 2015, there were 3,477 people killed and an estimated additional 391,000 people injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Keep your phone away while driving or have a co-pilot who can help you navigate.
- Make sure your car is maintained for travel. Check tire pressure and treads, fill windshield washer fluid, check windshield wipers, and get an oil change.
- Use hands-free phone services like voice to text, turn navigation sounds on your Bluetooth and make sure your GPS program is up to date if using your phone to navigate.
- Make an emergency road side kit. If you plan to travel in any area prone to snow, make sure you're prepared if your car gets stuck. Kits should include:- Flashlights with batteries
- Warning flare
- Warm clothing like gloves and hats
- Drinking water and non-perishable food
- Cat litter/sand to use for traction
- Small shovel
- Blankets
- Phone chargers
- First Aid Kit
- Take breaks. Constant driving can tire the mind and body. You should stop every few hours and get out of the car, stretch, refill drinks/food and check on cargo.
- Every day, over 8 people are killed and 1,161 injured in distracted driving incidents, make sure you have a co-pilot who can help you keep your eyes on the road and handle any emergencies.
- Keep valuables out of view while traveling. When stopping for breaks, make sure anything valuable like presents are kept in the trunk or in a covered area.
- Have roadside assistance information handy in case of emergencies.
- Check the weather! Make sure you're traveling during a time that snow or rain isn't guaranteed in the forecast. This will keep you and your family safer.
No matter what, you should never be distracted while driving. Let's make sure everyone on the roads make it to their holiday celebrations safely.