Every year, holiday celebrations bring about increased congestion on the roads, and drivers must be even more diligent to stay safe and avoid car accidents. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimated last year that more than 400 deaths and 45,000 injuries requiring medical attention may occur during the New Year’s holiday season.
To stay safe on the road this New Year’s Eve, the NSC offers the following tips:
- Buckle up during every trip.
- When driving, avoid using electronic devices — including those that are hands-free.
- Seat children with size-appropriate restraints.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Designate a sober driver before attending celebrations.
- Plan ahead and drive defensively.
- Never drive tired.
In addition to avoiding drinking and driving at all costs, it’s important to avoid distractions while driving. Distractions are not limited to cell phone use — car crashes can occur as a result of anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road even for a moment. During the busy holiday season, a driver can become distracted by programming a GPS, getting ready while driving, reaching to secure tumbling gifts and shopping bags, and more. Talk to a skilled car accident attorney at Anapol Weiss today for more information about crashes in Philly.
Parents should model good behavior for their teens by driving without distraction, as traffic safety professionals estimate distracted driving plays a role in about 25 to 35 percent of crashes and about 50 percent of teen car crashes. In a recent Huffington Post article, I have outlined a few tips for parents to consider during the holidays — and all year around.
Let’s start the New Year safely. Drive sober and distraction-free. Your life and the lives of others depend on it.