Tidewater area drivers: Stay safe on the road this holiday season

The holidays are a great time to visit with friends and family and celebrate the joy of the season –but they are also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road in Virginia.  According to the National Safety Council, this year over 600 people will die across the country from injuries sustained around the Christmas and New Year’s holiday periods.

 

What causes holiday season accidents?

 

The main culprits for holiday wrecks include drinking and driving, driving while tired, and distracted driving.  Drunk driving is by far the main problem over the holiday period from Christmas to New Year’s, especially with the number of office parties, bar and restaurant gatherings, and celebrations with friends and families.

 

How can you protect yourself this holiday season?

 

The three best things you can do to stay safe on the road this holiday season include:

1. Don’t drink and drive – you don’t only put your life in danger when you consume alcohol and drive, you put the lives of all other road users in danger as well.  Moderate your alcohol intake or use the services of a taxi or designated driver.
2. Wear your seatbelt – this seems like boring, simple advice – but it is advice that people still need to hear.  No matter who is driving or which position you’re riding in (even in the backseat) – you need to buckle up.
3. Drive defensively – around the holidays, there are just a lot of bad drivers on the road.  Don’t let youself get distracted – keep an eye on the road and watch for unsafe drivers, then avoid them.

 

Enjoy the holidays and take care of your friends, family and neighbors on the road this year!