Driving Over the Holidays? Preparing for the Trip and What to Do if You’re in an Auto Accident

Many Americans will be driving long distances to see their loved ones this holiday season. Unfortunately, the holidays are among the most dangerous times to be on the road. The number of injuries and deaths from automobile crashes increases substantially
in the time period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. The following tips can help you avoid an accident and make the right decisions if you experience an unfortunate crash.

Prepare for your trip:

Remember: cell phone, text messaging, and social media websites can wait.

• Over 400,000 people were injured last year in motor vehicle accidents involving distracted drivers. Save your “season’s greetings” until you’re off the road.

The holidays are an important time to remember to choose a designated driver.

• More wrecks are caused by drunk driving during the holidays, with New Year’s Day being among the most dangerous times to be on the road. Make your resolution a commitment to avoid drunk or buzzed driving.

Check the weather forecast and prepare your vehicle.

• We all dream of a white Christmas, but icy conditions may put your holiday travel plans at risk. Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped for the anticipated driving conditions.
• Wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers also buckle up.

If you’re in an auto accident:

The first and most important thing to do is to call 911, even if the collision is minor.

• Check for injuries of everyone involved and request an ambulance if someone is injured or if you aren’t sure. Remain calm.

What not to say.

• Do not tell anyone that the collision was your fault, even if you think it might have been.
• You may not be thinking clearly after a wreck. You need the opportunity to investigate all of the events and circumstances that contributed to the collision.

What to do at the scene if you are safely out of the way of oncoming traffic and wrecked cars.

• Photograph the accident scene if you are able. Photos can document the damage to your vehicle and may help to prevent the at-fault driver from changing his story.
• It’s also important to remember that many wrecks occur because a state or county has failed to maintain roadways. Photographing the conditions of the road can document the conditions of the roadway.

Harman Law wishes you safe and happy holidays.