It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be the most dangerous time of the year. If you head out for a holiday celebration of any kind and you’re not prepared to take the necessary steps to avoid a Connecticut auto accident you might turn your holiday cheer into holiday fear.
Driving during the holiday season presents heightened risks for you as the driver and for your passengers as well. It is important that you take the time to prepare yourself for this change in conditions and make sure that you are part of the solution to keeping people on the road safe and not part of the problem.
The good news is that you can have fun with friends and family and do it in a safe way that will not put anyone at risk. If you follow the steps below, you will more likely be reveling in the joys of the season instead of the misery of accidental injury.
Step #1: Wear your seatbelt. This very simple step can keep you and your passengers safe in all situations. If you don’t wear a seatbelt you will be at greater risk of getting injured.
Step #2: Avoid excessive speeding. Whether you’re racing to your destination to be there on time or trying to get home from a long night out, driving fast is one way to get yourself into an accident. Worse yet, excessive speed can lead to a more severe accident than you otherwise would experience.
Step #3: Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drunk or drugged driving is always a very dangerous thing to do and especially around the holidays when you may not be the only one on the road who is under the influence. You should always designate a driver or take a ride share car home from your holiday gathering.
Step #4: Don’t drive while drowsy. When you’re out late after a night of holiday cheer you may be more tired than you normally would be and that can be very dangerous when you’re behind the wheel. Some studies have suggested that being drowsy behind the wheel is as dangerous as being drunk behind the wheel. Avoid this issue altogether by staying over where you’re celebrating or getting a ride home.
Step #5: Eliminate distractions. Distracted driving can cause serious injuries and get you into a Connecticut auto accident in the blink of an eye. While it can be tempting to use your phone to text someone while you’re on your way or change the holiday song you're listening to, you shouldn’t do it. Stowe your phone until you arrive at your destination. You’ll be safer because of this choice.
The holidays can be a happy and festive time of the year and we wish you all the best as you head out to celebrate with friends and family. We also wish you safe drive to and from your destination so you can enjoy all of the holiday cheer without any of the holiday fear. Happy holidays!
