Everyone knows that this time of year involves a lot of hustle and bustle. It seems like there is never a moment to spare from now until the New Year! There are so many things to do in preparation for the holidays that it feels like one’s to-do list is never done—and the “doing” is not all. During the holidays there is also a lot of “going”—work bashes, school plays, trips to the mall, church activities, family get-togethers, breakfasts with Santa, cookie parties, and of course, the cross-country trip to visit grandma and grandpa. With so much dashing this way and darting that way, there is no real surprise that the holidays are one of the busiest and most dangerous times to be on the roadways. The good news is that there are things every motorist can do to make holiday travel safer. The following are a few tips to help make sure that you arrive safely at your destination this holiday season:
- Leave the phone alone. A driver who uses his or her cell phone in any manner is driving distracted. Distracted drivers are one of the largest causes of accidents. Do yourself and your fellow motorists a favor and keep your hands off your phone until your car is parked.
- Slow down. While it may be important to make it to your destination on time—speeding is not the answer. Take your time and relax. It is more important to make it to your destination safely than not at all.
- Know when to stay home. Winter weather can be fun if it means skiing or sledding. However, no one wants to go skating down the road! Before you head out this season, take a minute to check the forecast and determine whether it will be safe for you to travel. If you are ever in doubt, opt to be cautious and stay put!
- Avoid drowsy driving. With so much to do over the holidays, many of us are running on limited shut-eye. If you know you have a long trip ahead of you, make sure you get your beauty sleep before starting off.
- Winterize your ride. In winter, it is important to make sure your vehicle can handle everything Mother Nature can throw your way. Make an appointment with your local mechanic to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving. If you are do-it-yourselfer be sure to check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, battery, lights, and wipers.
- Sobriety is the name of the game. If you have been drinking at a party, do yourself a favor and let someone else do the driving. There is no reason to get behind the wheel this holiday. There are plenty options from the more old-fashioned, like having a designated driver or taking public transportation, to modern day conveniences like ordering a ride from Uber or Lyft. Driving sober this season can be as simple as a few clicks on your smart phone.
If you or a loved one was seriously injured after being involved in an automobile accident this holiday season, it is important to contact an experienced Kansas City Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney right away. The seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. will evaluate your case and determine whether you hold another party liable for your injuries and suffering. Our team of skilled Attorneys is prepared to fight until justice has been served. Trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to work for you, just as they have worked for countless injury victims around the area, both in Kansas and Missouri. To schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate Injury Attorney contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.
