Memorial Day weekend will be here soon, and AAA estimates that close to 40 million Americans will be traveling at least 50 miles during this time. With so many cars and trucks on the roads, it is inevitable that there will be an increase in accidents. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that over 400 people will suffer fatal injuries during this weekend. Additionally, Value Penguin data found that the roads between New York and Washington, D.C. showed the highest incidents of fatal crashes, while the most dangerous cities were Los Angeles and Houston.
Driver Preparations
Preparing for safe driving starts before motorists even enter their vehicles. Ensuring that the directions are at hand and allotting extra time can help avoid panicked feelings when a wrong turn is taken or traffic backs up. Drivers should also silence cell phones to avoid any distractions. Fatigue leads people to fall asleep at the wheel or make bad judgement calls, so it always recommended to obtain enough sleep before driving.
Driving under the influence can lead to fatal consequences, so with all the holiday parties, it is important to have a designated driver. If one is not available, request an Uber or Lyft to pick you up. Every passenger also needs to buckle up, with younger riders in car seats when appropriate.
On the Road
It is not always easy to follow speed limits, but speeding is a form of aggressive driving that leads to accidents. Many drivers are impatient on holiday weekends, and it is safer not to engage with them. Rather than getting angry at a tailgater, it is smart to pull over and allow them to pass. To avoid tailgating, drivers should follow the four-second-rule and maintain safe following distances. Erratic drivers are accidents waiting to happen, so the best advice is to stay away from them. Allowing trucks plenty of room is also a good idea, especially since they have larger blind spots and may not see other vehicles.
A Safer Weekend
Drivers should be alert and extra cautious to help prevent serious and fatal accidents. The NSC President emphasized that Memorial Day weekend should celebrate the beginning of summer rather than the start of a deadly driving season. She added that slowing down, staying focused, and being courteous can lead to a more enjoyable weekend, and a decrease in emergency room visits.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Wish You and Your Family a Safe Memorial Day Weekend
If you were involved in a car accident, contact a knowledgeable Media car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. for legal guidance. Call us at 610-565-3701 or complete an online form today for a free consultation. With offices in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we service clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.