Memorial Day weekend is a great time to visit long-lost family and friends. Unfortunately, accident rates tend to spike on this holiday due to congested traffic and drunk drivers. In fact, BacTrack ranks Memorial Day weekend as one of the most dangerous times of the year to drive.
Fortunately, with a few simple tips, you can enjoy the holidays injury-free:
- Do not drink and drive;
- Wear a seatbelt;
- Avoid peak traffic;
- Be aware of children;
- And inspect your vehicle.
If you sustain injuries over Memorial Day weekend in a crash that is not your fault, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids personal-injury attorney can assess your case to determine if you may be entitled to compensation for health-care bills, lost income and other damages.
Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also visit http://accident.usattorneys.com/ to learn more about injury lawsuits.
Here are five tips to keep in mind if you hit the road on Memorial Day weekend:
1. Do Not Drink and Drive
According to DrugFree.org, drunk driving is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents over Memorial Day weekend. If you are attending a barbeque or party, be sure to arrange alternative transportation the day before.
Try to find a sober driver, or use a rideshare service such as Lyft or Uber. You can also call one of these taxi companies in Cedar Rapids:
- Century Cab: 319-365-0505
- American Class Taxi: 319-363-8294
2. Wear a Seatbelt
Seatbelts are still the most effective safety devices in your vehicle. They significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries and death. Buckle up and make sure all passengers are wearing seatbelts before you start the engine.
3. Avoid Peak Traffic
Traffic congestion over Memorial Day weekend is more than an inconvenience. Your chance of crashing increases with more vehicles on the road.
If possible, do not travel at peak times on Memorial Day weekend. Most drivers start their trips on Friday and return on Monday, so these are the most congested days. Watch local news broadcasts to identify and avoid traffic hotspots.
4. Be Aware of Children
Adults aren’t the only ones with a long weekend. Children will also be enjoying the holidays.
Reduce your speed when driving through residential areas and near parks. Be especially careful if you see children playing on the side of the road.
5. Inspect Your Vehicle
Take your vehicle to a mechanic for a pre-trip inspection. Do this at least two weeks before you leave – just in case something goes wrong.
Ask the mechanic to check your brakes, tires, fluids and other safety equipment. This can help you avoid breaking down on the side of a busy highway.
If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Iowa, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids personal-injury lawyer can assess your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free initial consultation.