Holiday Road Safety: Make Every Mile Merry & Bright
The holiday season is officially underway! From long weekends filled with food to evenings spent celebrating the new year, this time of year brings plenty of joy—and plenty of traffic. With more people on the move, staying safe on the road is just as important as planning the festivities. Whether you’re heading across town or traveling hours to see loved ones, a little preparation can keep your holiday travels smooth and safe.
Smart Travel Starts Here
Holiday roads can quickly become congested, and winter weather adds its own challenges. Increased traffic, impaired driving, and distractions tend to peak around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s—making safety a must. These simple steps will help you navigate the season like a pro:
Prep Your Vehicle for Winter:
Check your tires, battery, wipers, and fluids, and keep an emergency kit in your trunk. Cold weather is unpredictable, and a ready vehicle is your first line of defense.
Prioritize Rest:
Long days and late nights make drowsy driving more common this time of year. Make sure you’re well-rested before getting behind the wheel.
Plan Ahead to Avoid the Rush:
Leave early, build in extra time, and try to travel outside peak holiday windows. A little flexibility can significantly reduce stress.
Buckle Up Every Time:
Seatbelts save lives. Make sure everyone—front seat and back—is buckled up before you hit the road.
Stay Focused:
Put your phone away, silence notifications, and keep distractions to a minimum. Eyes up, hands on the wheel.
Use Defensive Driving Skills:
Holiday traffic brings all kinds of driving behaviors. Stay alert, give yourself plenty of space, and anticipate what other drivers may do.
Celebrate Safely:
If your festivities include alcohol or anything that impairs judgment, plan ahead with a designated driver or rideshare. One smart choice can prevent a tragedy.
By adding these safety habits to your holiday plans, you help ensure that the season is filled with celebration—not complications. Protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone on the road.
Wishing you a joyful, safe holiday season—and as always, stay Waldsafe!