Holiday Travelling

The holidays are a wonderful time to get together with family and friends. There is nothing better than celebrating traditions with the ones you love. With everyone trying to be together one thing is for certain, there will be a lot of people traveling. According to The National Safety Commission 90% of holiday traveling will be done by car. This equals about 40 million cars on the road traveling long distances for Thanksgiving or Christmas. The cause for concern is the driving in winter weather can be very stressful, hectic and dangerous.

The last thing that anyone would want during their celebrations is a car crash. Below are some tips that may help you combat the causes of holiday accidents:

• Have your car examined before you leave. This is one of the most crucial winter driving tips. The last thing you want to worry about is your car falling apart, leaving you stranded far away from home. Take it to your local auto shop for a quick once over, make sure your tires are winter ready and properly inflated and all fluid levels are maintained.
• Check Local Highway Regulations: Certain highway laws vary on a state to state basis. If you are leaving state it is a good idea to look over the state you are visiting highway laws and regulations. Knowledge of the law will help you avoid being ticketed and keep you and others safe.
• Get Plenty of Rest and Stay Feed and Hydrated: This will help to keep you an alert driver and decrease the risk of drowsiness and fatigue.
• Make Sure you Allow Enough Time to Reach Your Destination: Because of icy and snowy conditions the roads are likely to be jammed or running slowly. Allow enough time that your plans can adjust for slower driving.
• Pack a Winter Safety Kit: Pack the essentials for a safe road trip this includes a cell phone and charger, ice scraper, tow rope and jumper cables, sand or cat litter to aid with traction, blankets, flashlights, matches and emergency candles, and first aid kit. You want to be certain you and your family is safe and warm incase the worst may happen.
• Take Time for Breaks and Stretching: Being cramped in close quarters for long periods of time could lead to developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). It is suggested that a break is taken every two (2) hours or 100 miles. This helps to avoid long term damage and aching to the spine, knees and ankles.

I wish all of you safe holiday travel and send warm and happy thoughts at this special time of the year, and all year long.