Driving Safely Through Holiday Weekends: Five Key Tips
Holiday weekends bring a surge in traffic, creating more opportunities for drivers to stay vigilant and prioritize safety on the road. Here are five tips to help you stay safe and avoid potential hazards during these busy travel times.
1. Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Many drivers are focused on reaching their destination, which can make them more prone to distractions. Keep an eye out for drivers who seem preoccupied—like those with visible luggage piles or distracted driving habits. To stay safe, always maintain a minimum four-second following distance. This extra space allows for better reaction time, especially when roads are slippery or visibility is low. The more space you give yourself, the more you can anticipate hazards and adjust. Also, avoid getting too close to other vehicles, and steer clear of aggressive drivers who might be tempted to squeeze into tight spaces or ignore traffic rules. Give the right of way, even when it’s not technically yours. The extra seconds lost are worth your safety.
2. Avoid Distractions
Holiday weekends come with their own set of driving distractions—extra traffic, construction zones, and unpredictable road conditions. Before hitting the road, plan your route and familiarize yourself with potential detours. If you’re using a GPS, set it to voice-guided directions to avoid taking your eyes off the road. Cell phones are a major cause of distraction, so keep your phone out of sight. If you’re traveling alone, put your phone in a place where it won’t tempt you to check it. If you need to make a call or send a message, pull over safely before doing so.
3. Buckle Up—It Could Save Your Life
Seat belts are your first line of defense in a crash. In 2019, nearly half of all fatal passenger vehicle accidents involved people who weren’t wearing seat belts. During high-traffic holiday weekends, the risk of sudden stops or quick lane changes increases, making it even more crucial to buckle up. Not only does a seat belt protect you, but it also keeps you in control of your vehicle, allowing you to react to sudden changes in traffic without losing control.
4. Watch Out for Drunk Drivers
Impaired driving is a serious risk on holiday weekends, especially with the increased number of people celebrating with alcohol. In fact, about one-third of fatal accidents on Memorial Day weekend involve drunk drivers. Always be alert and use the Smith System’s principle of “Get the Big Picture.” Keep an eye on the traffic around you—check your mirrors and be extra cautious when driving near cars that may be swerving, speeding, or acting erratically. Your awareness could make all the difference in avoiding a collision with a drunk driver.
5. Plan Your Trip Wisely
To avoid the added stress of congested traffic, try traveling during off-peak hours. Fridays after work are typically the busiest, so if possible, plan to leave earlier in the day or after rush hour. By giving yourself extra time, you reduce the pressure to rush and can remain calm, no matter the road conditions. Remember, you can’t control other drivers’ actions, but you can control how you react. Stay patient and focus on maintaining a calm, cautious demeanor behind the wheel.
Keep Your Family Safe and Enjoy the Journey
With these simple strategies, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road this holiday weekend. By staying alert, avoiding distractions, and planning ahead, you’ll make it to your destination in one piece—no matter how busy the roads become.
