We all want to avoid an accident on Christmas Eve. However, what can one do with thousands of people hitting the roads across Florida? Brooks Law Group had an insider conversation with The Big Guy himself, and Santa let us in on a few secrets that protect him (and his sleigh) safe each year. As you prepare for this week’s celebrations, we encourage you to keep these tips in mind too!
Tip 1 to avoid an accident on Christmas Eve: check your vehicle!
In the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to overlook basic vehicle maintenance. Tasks like oil changes, tire checks, changing bulbs, or even filling up with gas don’t make the priority list on your already long to-do list. Avoid an accident on Christmas Eve by:
- Checking your tires: properly inflated tires are key to safety on the road. Over or under-inflating tires can lead to less maneuverability, uneven wear, and a higher chance of a blowout while driving.
- Double-check all bulbs. Brake lights, turn signals, and backup lights are key to road safety. If a bulb has burned out, get it changed quickly!
- Do a last-minute maintenance run if you’ll be traveling a distance for the holidays. An oil check and basic inspection are a great way to avoid a breakdown and prevent potential accidents.
- Put together an emergency kit for your car. Include jumper cables, flares or warning cones, and a flashlight with batteries. Secondary crashes are much more likely with lack of visibility, so making sure you’re seen at a distance is very important.
After Santa takes care of basic vehicle checks, he focuses on planning his route.
Tip 2: Plan your trip (and check it twice!)
The best way to avoid an accident is to know your route well and plan for alternatives ahead of time. Santa maps out his trip around the world a year in advance. While you don’t have to take planning quite that seriously, you should take time to map out your plan. If you’ll be traveling to visit family or friends, avoid an accident on Christmas Eve by allowing time for excess traffic and slower speeds. It’s worth knowing a few alternative roads to bypass congested areas if possible, as this can lessen stress and make your trip more enjoyable.
Not only should you plan ahead for where your trip takes you, but you should also plan for your time in the car. Allow for stops to avoid eating or drinking behind the wheel. If you’re traveling with young passengers, let your spouse or partner assist with backseat demands and keep your focus on the road. Keep music at a reasonable volume and limit distractions, and you’re more likely to arrive safe and sound for the holiday celebration.
Tip 3: Don’t forget basic driving safety.
Santa always comes back to the basics to avoid an accident on Christmas Eve. Remember what you learned in driver’s education? Now’s a great time to pull those rules of the road back out and review them. Holiday traffic can challenge even the most experienced driver. Don’t forget to:
Drive defensively
Drivers don’t make the best decisions behind the wheel in the busyness of the season. Avoid an accident on Christmas Eve by preparing to drive defensively. A few scenarios where you need to be on guard and ready to react include:
- drivers suddenly changing lanes in front of you to take an exit
- a vehicle quickly braking before they miss their turn
- debris being dropped in the road (poorly fastened Christmas trees or decor, boxes from a delivery truck, etc.)
When you come upon an obstacle, being prepared to safely swerve, change lanes, or stop is pertinent to your safety and the safety of those around you.
Allow for plenty of braking distance
As mentioned above, sudden braking is a common issue, especially in heavy traffic. Allow plenty of distance between you and other vehicles so you can stop in time to avoid a collision.
Beware of distracted driving around light displays!
Beware of drunk drivers
Drunk driving is another common issue on Christmas Eve. Watch for drivers who swerve, drive at excessively slow or fast speeds, weave in and out of traffic, or brake unnecessarily (and frequently.) Report suspected drunk driving to the local authorities ASAP to protect yourself and others on the road this holiday season.
Don’t be a victim of distracted driving
Christmas light displays, laser shows, fireworks…the holidays are full of distractions you can see from the road. While you might be driving cautiously, others around you might not be. Avoid an accident on Christmas Eve by staying home if possible. If you must be on the roads, watch for signs of distracted driving (hint: they’re similar to drunk driving!) and give other vehicles plenty of space.
Brooks Law Group is here if you’re in an accident this holiday season.
When accidents happen around Christmas, it’s hard for everyone involved. Brooks Law Group can’t take away the pain or suffering, but we can walk alongside you and make the legal burden easier to bear. We provide the best legal services for those injured by distracted, reckless, or irresponsible drivers. Our team specializes in personalized representation, offering ease of communication, continued support, and results you can count on. Affording legal help isn’t a concern with our contingency fee, so you can focus on healing and moving forward instead of financial concerns.
If you or someone you love is injured in a car accident with another motorist or a commercial vehicle of any kind, make us your first phone call. When you don’t know where to turn, Look to Brooks!
