The holidays bring cozy sweaters, warm drinks and time with family. They also bring long road trips, packed schedules and late nights. All that fatigue makes driving more dangerous at a time of year that should be about making good memories.
With more cars on the road, crashes tend to rise during the holidays as drivers deal with exhaustion, rush to keep commitments and travel through bad weather. These tips can help you get where you’re going safely.
Get plenty of rest first
Studies have found that drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving impaired: your senses dull and your reaction time slows. Sleep well the night before a long drive and avoid driving during hours when you’re normally asleep. If you start to nod off, pull over somewhere safe and stretch.
Skip the energy drinks
Highly caffeinated drinks give you a quick jolt, but the crash that follows can be dangerous. Pack water and snacks like nuts and fruit for steadier energy.
Go easy on cruise control
Cruise control can let your mind wander, so you pay less attention to the road ahead. It can also slow your response if a hazard appears suddenly.
Check the weather and your route
Look up the forecast along your whole route before you leave, especially if you’re heading somewhere with a different climate. Map apps such as Waze or Google Maps help with routing and road conditions, but keep a paper map in the car too in case your phone dies or you lose signal.
Don’t wait for the fuel light
Plenty of us wait for the low-fuel warning before filling up. On a road trip that’s risky, because you can’t always know how far it is to the next gas station, and running out can leave you stranded on the shoulder.
Pack for the unexpected
Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, pillows, blankets, jumper cables, a spare tire and extra fluids in the vehicle. Road trips don’t always go to plan, and it’s better to be over-prepared.
Safe travels and happy holidays!
If a holiday trip ends in a crash, Accident Care and Treatment Center in Oklahoma City specializes in auto accident injuries and takes walk-ins. Call (405) 842-3209 or visit AccidentCare.com.