Face it — the winter holidays are often the most stressful time of the year. During this season, there are more cars and trucks on the road. People are out doing their holiday shopping and the truckers are under increased pressure to deliver the goods to retailers so the shelves remain full to meet consumers’ needs.
Then, there are many alcohol-fueled parties and meals with family and friends, after which some intoxicated drivers climb behind the wheels of their vehicles for a wobbly ride back home. All in all, the winter holidays can be a dangerous time to be traveling both locally and farther afield. Below are some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safer this year.
Beware of intoxicated drivers (and don’t be one yourself)
If you are on the interstate or highway and spot a motorist who is weaving from lane to lane, running off the side of the road or otherwise driving dangerously, make sure that you stay far out of their way. When it’s safe, you can pull off the road and place a call to authorities to be on the lookout for a potentially impaired driver.
Avoid distractions
When you are driving, your eyes should be on the road, your hands on the wheel and your mind on the task at hand — arriving safely and without incident at your destination. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, as on average, reading or responding to a text takes the driver’s eyes off the road ahead for nearly a minute. In that time, you can cross a football field from end zone to end zone, wreaking havoc on your way.
Check the weather before heading out
Not all parts of Texas have to worry about snowy roads and ice-covered interstates, but here in Plano, winter storms are a reality indeed. Black ice is particularly perilous because it isn’t obvious until you’ve already hit the patch and go into a skid. Make sure to allow enough time to accommodate wintry weather conditions.
If the worst occurs and you’re injured in an accident, learning more about your right to seek compensation for your damages can help you get back onto your feet after a collision.