The long Memorial Day weekend is the perfect opportunity to visit relatives or just hit the road with friends. If you are planning a road trip to make the most of your time off, bear in mind that traffic accidents tend to spike over the holiday period. According to the National Safety Council, the average number of traffic fatalities on Memorial Day from 2009 to 2014 was more than 10-percent higher than the average number of deaths during comparable periods.
An increase in drunk driving and the congestion caused by holiday traffic are two of the primary factors contributing to this disturbing trend. Although there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of crashing over the long weekend, all it takes is one negligent driver to cause a tragedy.
If the worst happens and you or a loved one suffers an injury on your holiday road trip, turn to Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. An injury attorney will evaluate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the maximum compensation. Call 319-393-1020 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an accident lawyer in Cedar Rapids.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Crashing over Memorial Day Weekend
No matter how responsible you are behind the wheel, nobody is immune to collisions; however, the following six tips will significantly reduce your risk of crashing:
- Plan Your Route before You Depart: Traveling on unfamiliar roads will increase your risk of crashing. Use Google Maps or Waze to plan your route before you depart.
- Service Your Vehicle: The shoulder of a busy highway is not a safe place to break down. Servicing your vehicle not only could help you avoid unexpected delays but it might also lengthen the life of your engine.
- Record the Phone Number of Roadside Assistance: No driver wants to call roadside assistance, but it is important that you are prepared for the worst. Write down your insurance company’s roadside assistance phone number.
- Keep Your Kids Distracted: Loud and raucous children can distract you long enough to cause a serious accident. Remember to bring their favorite toys, a tablet, or a few puzzle books to keep them entertained.
- Put Your Phone on Silent: Research published by gov shows that 431,000 people suffered injuries in distracted-driving collisions in 2014. You can reduce your risk by putting your cell phone on silent. You should also avoid eating or drinking behind the wheel, gawking at accident scenes, and adjusting the climate or audio controls while your vehicle is in motion.
- Do Not Drive under the Influence: Alcohol contributed to nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in 2014. The easiest way to avoid drunk driving accidents is to stay sober.
Although these strategies will certainly reduce your risk of crashing, all it takes is one negligent driver to cause a serious wreck. If you are hurt by a drunk, distracted, or reckless motorist on your holiday road trip, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC to discuss your case. Call 319-393-1020 today to arrange a free consultation with an injury attorney in Cedar Rapids.
