The holidays are a time to reconnect and spend quality time with family. But it’s not always as easy as it sounds. The holidays famously bring some intensity for many. For some, seeing relatives may be stressful or uncomfortable, while others may feel overwhelmed striving to prepare the “perfect” holiday meal. Regardless of whether the holidays bring joy or a touch of difficulty, staying safe, especially on the road, takes precedence above all.
The heightened emotions combined with increased traffic on the roads during the holiday season pose a threat to you and your loved ones. Being mindful of the road dangers during holiday time ensures you can embrace the season with as much enjoyment and safety as possible.
Getting into a car accident is probably the last situation you want to be in, especially during the holiday season. If you are involved in an accident, however, we are here to help. Our Los Angeles wrongful death law firm has the knowledge and expertise to walk you through a personal injury case or wrongful death case.
Here are some of the road dangers you’ll want to be aware of this holiday season, as well as tips for staying safe on the road.
Top 5 Road Dangers
Weather
With winter comes fog, rain, snow, icy roads, and the heightened risk of hazardous driving conditions. The rapidly changing weather conditions require extra focus and caution behind the wheel. Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and driving at reduced speeds is crucial to prevent skidding or accidents on slippery roads.
Use headlights for better visibility, and refrain from using cruise control to ensure constant attentiveness and quicker reaction times. Keep in mind that daylight saving means it gets darker earlier, requiring extra caution and vigilance in the late afternoon and evenings. Be aware of your surroundings, and watch out for pedestrians, children, and even wildlife, such as moose and deer, that might cross the roads unexpectedly.
Distracted Driving
As more people hit the road to visit friends and family during the holidays, distractions behind the wheel also tend to escalate. From coordinating dinner plans to reminding relatives about gifts or extending warm holiday wishes to those who live far away, the urge to text or talk on the phone while driving seems to increase. These distractions can easily divert your attention away from the road, leading to dangerous circumstances for you and the cars around you.
Designate the logistical details to the person sitting in the passenger’s seat and save your texts and phone calls for when you arrive at your destination. A mere moment of distraction from the road can change your life in the blink of an eye.
Alcohol
Whether it is Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, or New Year’s Eve, holiday celebrations usually mean more drinks on the table. Festive moments bring a combination of excitement and stress, leading to an overindulgence in alcohol, which in turn can result in poor decision-making and impaired judgment. Be wary of potential drunk drivers on the road, wear seatbelts, and avoid getting behind the wheel when intoxicated.
Stress and Fatigue
As mentioned earlier, the holiday season can be a particularly stressful time. While some rush to make it to their family gatherings on time, others struggle with exhaustion after a late night out at the bar. This heightened stress or fatigue often leads to drivers exceeding the speed limit or feeling hazy or disoriented on the road. Avoid risky driving by ensuring that you get enough sleep before hitting the road and taking deep breaths to calm your heart rate if you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
Traffic
Increased traffic congestion during the holiday rush is not a secret. But more cars on the road presents a greater chance for distractions and requires an increased level of caution. It is crucial to stay alert, plan ahead by leaving early to avoid rushing to your destination, and mentally prepare yourself for the inevitable traffic gridlock. Be prepared for potential delays and give yourself extra time to ensure a more relaxed and focused drive.
How Do You Stay Safe on the Road During the Holidays?
To sum it all up simply, taking care of yourself, staying vigilant, and steering clear of distractions is imperative for avoiding road dangers during holiday time. Whether it involves prepping your car for poor weather, putting away your phone while behind the wheel, refraining from driving under the influence, prioritizing adequate rest, or allocating extra time to ensure timely arrivals, there are many precautions you can take to increase safety during the festive holiday season.
Los Angeles Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims
Even with the proper safety precautions, road dangers during holiday time can lead to car accidents. If you are involved in a crash of any kind, it is best to contact a legal representative at Los Angeles personal injury law firms or Los Angeles wrongful death law firms.
Los Angeles personal injury law firms will work directly with insurance companies to identify the best compensation for your injuries. In cases of wrongful death, it is best to contact a Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer. Surviving loved ones may receive financial support to recover funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship.
Schedule a Free Consultation With A Los Angeles Injury Attorney
John J. Perlstein, our experienced personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles, has over 25 years of experience securing fair and just outcomes in personal injury cases. He will ensure accurate compensation for personal injury and wrongful victims and families of wrongful death victims. Call (213) 583-5786 or fill out the form for a free consultation regarding your case with a personal injury attorney in Los Angeles, CA.