Holiday Traffic: How to Stay Safe

Are you dreaming of Thanksgiving with all the trimmings and leftovers? Or are you dreaming of a white {sandy beach} Christmas? Whatever your plans are for the upcoming holidays, it is important to be aware of the influx of holiday traffic.  

As more and more out-of-town visitors visit the warm and sunny state of Florida, it is important you know how to stay safe on the roads this holiday season. 

Keep Calm and Drive Proactively 

The holidays are stressful enough without having to deal with aggressive drivers on busier roads. Make sure you’re prepared for anything and everything and “expect the unexpected.” You cannot control what the other drivers are doing on the road, but you can anticipate their moves and be ready defensively.

With the added stress of the holidays and busy roads, it’s important to remain calm and avoid road rage. Take a few deep breaths and carry on, road rage compromises your safety along with everyone around you.  

Before you head out on the road ensure you have all of your hands-free devices set up and in working order in case you need to answer a call from an eager family member awaiting your arrival, you can answer, distraction-free.  

Be prepared for anything and “expect the unexpected” on the road. 

Plan Ahead 

Holiday Parties 

No matter where your holiday celebration is, always plan ahead! 

Did you know Thanksgiving Eve—also known as Black Wednesday—is the highest day in the United States for drunk driving related accidents?  

Ask your friends and family to gather at your home instead of going out. But if you are attending a party, we always suggest that you protect yourself by: 

• finding a designated driver,  
• using a rideshare service,  
• or walking.  

If you do go out, make sure you are mindful of the other drivers on the road, as they may not be driving sober or distraction-free.  

Extra Travel Time 

Additionally, make sure you plan extra time for your travels. Whether you’re going across town or across the state, the roads will be busier than normal as everyone else is trying to get to their destination.  

You will feel less stressed and less inclined to speed when you are driving if you give yourself extra time. 

Remember: 1 in 5 drivers on the road in Florida are currently underinsured or uninsured entirely. Please drive safely and before any big travel plans ensure you are properly protected with Uninsured Motorist coverage on your policy.  

Avoid Nighttime Driving 

While it may not always be possible, make every effort to avoid driving at night. Even if your holiday celebrations are local, it may be ideal to spend the night at your host’s home. Nighttime, especially during the holidays, is a time that involves more DUI accidents and fatalities. 

If you do have to drive at night, avoid roads that are not well-lit or too dangerous. Stick to familiar routes if possible, so you can focus more on other drivers and less on where you need to go. It’s also best to make time for breaks if you’re driving further than usual so your mind is alert and can concentrate on the roads.  

If you find yourself thinking you will have to rely on caffeine to stay awake for your drive home, you’re better off getting a hotel for the night. This will help keep you and other drivers safe from injury. Driving while exhausted in the dark can lead to disaster; stay awake, stay alert.  

Hit Over the Holidays? 

The holidays are a time for family, celebrating, and memories, not a time to be dealing with an accident, injuries, and medical bills.  

If you were involved in an accident over the holidays, you need to contact the personal injury attorneys at Mickey Keenan, P.A., and let us handle the process and court system for you! Call us today at 813-871-1300 for a free consultation.