What Are Safe Driving Tips for Easter Weekend?
April 6, 2022
Many people look forward to Easter weekend to spend time with family and friends. With the warmer days and more time in the sunlight, it is tough to find a reason to stay inside. More people out means an increase in traffic, which also leads more car accidents. Here are some safety tips to help keep you and your family safe on Easter weekend.
Car Maintenance
Following the harsh winter conditions your car went through, it is important to make sure your car gets the maintenance it needs, especially before a long trip. Check your fluids and top them off as necessary, such as your washer fluid or brake fluid. Have a routine maintenance performed, and have your tire pressures, tire condition, and brakes checked.
Be sure to have your battery tested as well. Colder temperatures drain your battery quicker, so it may be due to be replaced by the time spring comes around. Winter is especially hard on your wiper blades and likely will need to be replaced. It is always a good idea to have your wiper blades replaced at least once every six months, regardless of condition.
Finally, make sure to check or pack an emergency kit for your car, one that includes water, non-perishable food, blankets, flashlights, first-aid kit, and a charger for your phone.
Weather Hazards
Although the snow and ice from winter are on their way out, there is still a chance of slippery roads. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast, especially when going out on a long trip. Spring showers are prevalent as well, and they could cause flash floods and slippery conditions as the rain mixes with oil and other substances.
The winter weather likely left behind potholes on the road, and hitting one will likely lead to a ruined tire. Avoid them as best as you can, but if you cannot, slow down right before impact and release your breaks.
Plan Ahead
Plan your route before you set off for the Easter weekend to avoid peak travel times. It is preferable to leave by the Friday before Easter, which is expected to be the busiest. Be sure to check the weather forecast as well and any travel updates on your route. Let someone know your plans and your destination, as well as when you are expected to arrive and depart.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Plan your trip while limiting distractions as best as possible. If traveling with younger passengers, be sure to provide them with quiet activities to reduce noise in the cabin, such as a tablet with games or movies and headphones.
Give your phone to another passenger so they could handle any texts or calls, or turn it off before setting off. Explain to all passengers that the best way to keep safe is to let the driver maintain focus at all times.
Additionally, make sure to pack safely and not to overload the cabin, ensuring that everything is secure. Loose objects can roll around and make their way under the pedals, or at least cause enough distraction to the driver where they could lose focus.
Rest Up
Drowsy driving is another leading cause of car accidents, so be sure to have plenty of rest before setting off, especially on long trips. Try not to plan on leaving right after work and on hours when the body is naturally tired, such as the hours between midnight and 6:00 a.m. and late afternoon. Take a break if driving for more than a few hours straight, or have someone else drive while you rest.
Do Not Drink and Drive
It is never okay to drink and drive. Even one drink is enough to impair someone and cause an accident. If you go out to celebrate the Easter holiday, be sure to have a designated driver or use a rideshare service to get home safely.
Furthermore, even if you are a sober driver, always be on the lookout for drunk drivers, and contact the authorities should you suspect another motorist of driving under the influence.
Philadelphia Car Accident Attorneys at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Help Those Injured on Easter Weekend
Easter is a joyous time. However, more people will be out on the road, which means more car accidents. Our Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. can help you if you have been injured in a collision. Call us at 215-569-9100 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.