Labor Day is the day to honor the hard-working Americans who keep our economy going. It’s also a great time to take a break and celebrate with friends and family.
But, with so many people taking vacations or just enjoying local festivities, Labor Day weekend is a dangerous time to be on the road. In a recent year, 17 people died in car accidents on Virginia’s roads over the Labor Day weekend.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day is among the most dangerous times of year to drive. Injuries and fatalities spike on Labor Day, the Fourth of July, and Memorial Day. Together, these summer holidays are called the Deadly Triangle.
It’s time to be extra careful on the road. Auto accidents during the Deadly Triangle often involve teenagers, and the accidents are more likely to happen at night when many drivers have been drinking.
At GibsonSingleton Virginia Injury Attorneys, we want you and your loved ones to stay safe and happy all summer long. That’s why we are sharing this list of safe driving tips to help you before and while you’re driving this holiday.
Take these precautions before you drive
Whether you’re taking a family road trip or staying closer to home, you can take four key precautions before you ever get behind the wheel:
- If you plan on drinking, make sure to arrange a safe ride home, whether that means a designated driver or a taxi or rideshare service.
- Make sure your car safety kit is up to date, containing:
- Spare tire
- Tool kit
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Reflective triangles
- First aid kit
- Nonperishable high-energy snacks, such as fruits and nuts
- Reflective vest
- Cell battery backup
- Fire extinguisher
- Rain poncho
- Blankets and cold weather clothes for wintertime emergencies
- Get your car checked out. Have your mechanic make sure all your car’s systems are working, and fluids are full. Also, have your tires checked to ensure they have enough tread and that the tire pressure is sufficient to prevent hot weather blowouts. Check to see if your headlights, taillights, blinkers, and hazard lights are all working properly as well.
- Plan ahead to avoid fatigued driving. Plan your route in advance so you can be sure to schedule enough breaks. That way, you won’t be driving for long stretches that could leave you feeling too tired. Plan to share driving duties with another responsible adult to help keep alert as well.
Four tips once you’re on the road
Once you are on the road this summer, here are more helpful pointers to protect you and your family:
- Follow the speed limit. Speeding is a major cause of automobile accidents. Speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and results in greater injuries and more fatalities if a collision occurs.
- Don’t tailgate. The more room you allow for other drivers, the more time you’ll have to respond to accidents and other hazards.
- Avoid distractions. Try not to talk too much when you’re driving and avoid distracting activities such as eating or reaching for objects. NEVER text or talk on a handheld phone when you’re driving. Make this an absolute for yourself, and younger drivers and children will remember your example.
- Share your itinerary with a friend or family member and then give your contact a call to check in once you’ve arrived safely at your destination, especially if you are driving alone.
Were you hurt by a careless driver?
At GibsonSingleton Virginia Injury Attorneys, we know what it’s like to be hurt in an accident caused by a careless driver. We consider it a calling to help accident victims get the money you deserve to pay your medical bills and put your life back together.
Call (804) 413-6777 and ask about our Zero Fee Guarantee. We don’t get paid unless you get paid.
