With a feast on the table and gifts under the tree, Christmas is the year’s most wholesome holiday. Millions of Americans make the most out of their time off work by visiting loved ones. More than 90 percent of these travellers make their journey using their personal vehicles.
With more cars on the road and the potential for icy conditions, Christmas break is a prime time for accidents. Drunk-driving rates also increase: Between 2001 and 2005, 45 people died on average in alcohol-related crashes every day during the Christmas period.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to safeguard your family. Keep these four tips in mind if you travel by car on Christmas:
- Visit your mechanic;
- Plan your route before you depart;
- Pack an emergency kit; and
- Bring a child seat if you are transporting young children.
If the worst happens and you suffer an injury over the holiday due to a negligent driver, turn to The Robson Law Firm. An accident attorney in Austin will evaluate your case, gather evidence and help you claim the maximum compensation from the at-fault motorist.
Our lawyers have a reputation for tough litigation and winning substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free consultation with a personal-injury lawyer.
Let’s take a closer look at four tips to help you avoid collisions on your Christmas road trip:
- Visit Your Mechanic
The shoulder of a busy highway is a dangerous place to break down. Before you depart, ask your mechanic to inspect your vehicle. Be sure to check the oil and fluid levels, air and gas filters, sparkplugs and lights.
- Plan Your Route before You Depart
Drivers are at a higher risk of crashing when they travel on unfamiliar roads. They are more likely to make illegal turns, break the speed limit and overlook traffic signs. You can avoid these issues by planning your route with a free program such as Waze or Google Maps.
- Pack an Emergency Kit
It’s easy to solve most breakdowns with a spare tire or a call to the mechanic. But what if a family member suffers an injury and needs immediate first-aid? What if your cell phone does not have service?
In these situations, an emergency kit is worth its weight in gold. Be sure to pack these items before you hit the road:
- Flares;
- A multi-tool;
- A first-aid kit;
- Reflective triangles;
- Engine oil;
- Latex gloves;
- Antifreeze;
- Jumper cables;
- Blankets;
- Brake fluid;
- A tire inflator;
- A flashlight;
- Duct tape;
- Pliers;
- A funnel;
- Dry snacks;
- Bottled water; and
- Paper towels.
- Bring a Child Seat If You Are Transporting Young Children
When used properly, a child seat lowers the risk of death to toddlers by 54 percent and to infants by 71 percent in passenger cars, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children aged 4 to 8 who sit in booster seats have a 45 percent lower risk of suffering injuries in car accidents.
If you or someone you love sustains an injury over the Christmas holiday, contact a Austin personal-injury lawyer from The Robson Law Firm. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free consultation.