'Tis the season to gather, celebrate, and embark on festive adventures. However, it's equally as important to stay safe on the road this holiday season. Nashville is a major city with busy highways and is a hub for holiday travel. Anticipating traffic delays and driving cautiously is particularly relevant due to the increased number of vehicles on the road during the holidays.
Below, you'll find seven key tips to avoid car accidents when hitting the road this holiday season.
1. Prepare your car for winter
Nashville's winters can bring temperatures that dip below freezing. Snowfall and ice are not uncommon, with occasional winter storms affecting road conditions. According to the National Weather Service, Nashville averages about 6 inches of snow annually, and ice storms can occur, making roads hazardous.
That's why, before heading out this holiday season, take a few minutes to make sure your car is ready for winter roads. Start with a basic check of tire pressure, fluid levels, and brake condition. Packing an emergency kit can make a big difference if you get stuck or experience a breakdown in the cold. A well-prepared vehicle and emergency kit can help keep you safe on winter roads.
Consider including these essentials in your winter emergency kit:
- Jumper cables – for a quick start if your battery dies
- Warm blankets – to stay warm in case of a breakdown
- Flashlight and extra batteries – for visibility and safety at night
- Bottled water and snacks – for hydration and energy if you face a delay
- Windshield scraper and de-icer – to keep visibility clear
- First-aid kit – for handling minor injuries on the spot
- Basic tools and tire repair kit – to address minor vehicle issues
- Phone charger – to keep your phone powered in case of emergencies
2. Rest up before departure
A good night's sleep before a long drive is necessary for staying safe. Drowsy driving impairs reaction times and judgment, making it as dangerous as driving under the influence. Fatigue impacts your ability to stay alert, react quickly, and recognize hazards, so ensure you're well-rested before hitting the road.
Here are tips to stay alert on long drives:
- Get 7-9 hours of sleep the night before to feel rested and alert.
- Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles to stretch and refresh.
- Plan driving shifts if traveling with others so each person has a chance to rest.
- Watch for drowsiness signs like heavy eyelids, yawning, and lane drifting.
- Avoid heavy meals before driving, as they can lead to fatigue.
3. Anticipate traffic delays
Thanksgiving and other upcoming holidays often mean heavy traffic. Leaving early gives you extra time for unexpected traffic or weather conditions, which helps prevent stress and allows you to reach your destination on schedule. Planning for delays also helps reduce the temptation to speed.
Consider doing the following for smoother holiday travel:
- Depart early: Starting your journey ahead of peak times can help you avoid the heaviest congestion.
- Monitor traffic updates: Use real-time traffic apps to stay informed about current road conditions.
- Plan alternative routes: Familiarize yourself with secondary roads in case of major delays on primary highways.
- Schedule regular breaks: Taking breaks can reduce fatigue and improve focus during long drives.
4. Buckle up
Regardless of the trip's length, make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly secured. Seat belts save lives, so check that each passenger is buckled up. Many holiday car accidents occur on short trips, so don't overlook this simple step just because you're not going far.
5. Put the phone away
Sending a text or checking your GPS can wait until you're off the road. Cell phone use is one of the leading causes of distracted driving accidents, which resulted in over 3,300 traffic fatalities in 2022. Keep your phone stored away while driving, and set up any needed navigation before starting the trip.
6. Drive defensively
Holiday traffic brings out a variety of drivers, and some may be rushed, stressed, or even impaired. Here are key defensive driving tips to stay safer this holiday season:
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Anticipate sudden stops and lane changes
- Use your mirrors frequently
- Limit distractions
- Watch for impaired drivers
- Stay calm and patient
7. Designate a sober driver
If your holiday plans include drinking, arrange for a designated driver before the celebration begins. Impaired driving is one of the top causes of holiday collisions, so ensuring everyone has a safe ride home can prevent unnecessary risks. Here are some ways to keep your celebration safe and stress-free:
- Use a rideshare or call a taxi
- Carpool with a designated sober driver
- Consider non-alcoholic beverages
- Stay at a family or friend's house
Take action if you've been injured in a car accident
If you've been injured in a Nashville car accident, the Law Office of Eric Beasley is ready to help you seek justice and fair compensation for your damages. Medical bills, lost wages, and other crash-related costs add up fast. Meanwhile, the insurance companies may try to reduce or deny your compensation. Attorney Eric Beasley knows the tactics insurers use, and he'll fight to protect your rights.
Our legal team has extensive knowledge of Tennessee law and a proven track record of winning cases for injured motorists. Some of our top case results include:
- A $3.5 million post-verdict settlement in a wrongful death case involving a motor vehicle collision with a construction vehicle.
- $2.5 million recovery obtained for a wrongful death resulting from a pedestrian accident caused by an impaired driver.
- $1.25 million settlement for severe internal injuries from a head-on collision.
We'll handle the details of your case from start to finish, from investigating the accident to negotiating aggressively on your behalf. If you're ready to take the first step, contact us today for a free consultation, and let us focus on your recovery while you focus on healing.