subject: Some Helpful Holiday Driving Tips [print this page] Most people travelling this holiday season will do so by car. Even if you plan on staying in town for the holidays you will still be dealing with the extra traffic that comes to your hometown for the season. An increase in traffic means that there is a greater chance that you will be involved in a car accident. Some accidents are unavoidable, but focused driving and careful planning can help you increase your chances of avoiding an accident this holiday season.
Plan your route
This is especially wise if you are planning on a long drive. But planning your route in advance is about more than just getting directions. Unfamiliarity with roads can leave you more vulnerable to potentially hazardous conditions. These hazards become even more dangerous if you're tired from driving all day. There are websites (such as Trapster) that can help you identify dangerous or crowded intersections, speed traps, etc.
Look out for red light cameras
I say this not because I think you're planning on running red lights but rather because often when people notice an intersection with red light cameras they are more likely to brake suddenly rather than proceed through a yellow light. If you collide with one of these suddenly braking vehicles the accident could be deemed partially your fault.
Stay away from drunk drivers
Since you probably already know better, I won't bother lecturing you. But as important as it is to have a sober driver, it's also important to have (or be) a driver that can identify and avoid an impaired driver.
Bad weather is bad
I'm sure by now you're sick of hearing this but a lot of winter accidents are the result of poor road conditions or a driver's impaired vision. If it's bad enough on the roads to make you think twice you should probably just stay home.
Avoid driving distracted and distracted drivers
Although you may consider yourself a good enough driver to not be distracted by cell phones, kids, your GPS system, etc, you should consider the other drivers on the road. How would you feel if they were driving with so many distractions? Also, even if you consider yourself capable to handle these distractions on a regular basis, don't you think it will be harder to juggle these distractions with increased traffic and irresponsible holiday drivers? One thing is for sure, if your insurance company decides that you were distracted during an accident by something in your own vehicle, or that you were partially at fault, you will pay.
Clearly, not all accidents can be prevented. Some, however, are preventable, but if an accident is deemed even partially your fault, your insurance adjuster will try to reduce your recovery by as much as possible.
