Posted: December 10, 2014
The New Jersey car accident lawyers of Eisbrouch Marsh would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. To ensure your safety on the roadways, we have a list of holiday driving tips that cover everything from driving in inclement weather to cross-country trips.
Our wish is that these tips will ensure the safest driving season of 2014.
Be prepared
Before the snow hits, make sure your vehicle is ready for the inclement weather. Check your battery, fluids, brakes, heater and defroster to make sure they are all in good working order. Plan routes ahead of time and give yourself extra time to make it to your destination if the conditions are less than stellar. Keep a few emergency supplies in your car, like a blanket, water and jumper cables.
Equip your vehicle
If you live in an area that tends to have icy roads throughout the season, invest in a set of high quality snow tires. When shopping for a new or used vehicle, look for those that have all wheel drive (AWD) or electronic stability control (ESC). Practice using these features in a safe place before taking your vehicle on the open road.
Practice, practice
Driving on snowy or icy roads requires plenty of practice. When the snow starts to fly, find a safe place like an empty parking lot to get a good feel for how your vehicle handles. Until you have had sufficient practice driving in these conditions, remain home whenever you can until snowplows and sanding trucks have done their job.
Staying safe
If you are traveling a longer distance to visit family and friends over the holidays, there are some additional safety tips to consider. First, map out your route in advance and determine areas of possible heavy traffic so you can plan accordingly. Keep valuables out of sight and locked away and always accompany children on bathroom breaks at rest stops.
Defensive driving
The holidays mean more drivers on the road, as everyone is heading out to parties, shopping and other festivities. Defensive driving is the mantra of the season, so observe speed limits, allow ample space behind the vehicle in front of you and stick to the right lane whenever possible. When roads are less than ideal due to snow, ice or water, these rules must be followed even more carefully to ensure a safe driving experience.
Impaired driving risks
For many drivers, the holidays mean plenty of celebrations involving alcohol, which means there could be even more impaired drivers on the road than usual. To protect yourself against an impaired driver, always wear your seatbelt and be sure children are properly restrained. Never get into a vehicle with someone that has been drinking and report any erratic driving you see on the roadways by dialing 9-1-1. Include the license plate number, vehicle description and direction in which the vehicle was traveling.
Finding a New Jersey car accident lawyer
If, despite your best efforts, you are involved in a car accident during the holiday season, you may need legal help to pursue compensation for injuries and property damage.
A NJ head-on collision lawyer at Eisbrouch Marsh is prepared to protect the rights of residents involved in a car accident and get them the compensation they are entitled to.
To get a free evaluation of your case or additional legal information, contact our office at 201-342-5545.
Resources
- Edmunds, Tips for Safe Driving on Snow and Ice, http://www.edmunds.com/car-safety/driving-on-snow-and-ice-10-safety-tips.html
- National Traffic Safety Institute, Winter Driving Safety Tips, https://ntsi.com/quick-links/safety-articles/winter-driving/
- AAA Exchange, Holiday Road-Trip Survival Tips, http://exchange.aaa.com/automobiles-travel/automobiles/holiday-road-trip-travel-tips/
