The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year—but it can also be one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. With heavier traffic and hazardous driving conditions, the risk for accidents rises significantly. Being aware of the dangers can help you stay alert and avoid a trip to the auto body repair shop. Read on for five common causes of car accidents during the holidays and how you can stay safe on the road.
Heavy Holiday Traffic
Between people traveling to visit family, shopping for gatherings and attending festive events, it’s common for there to be more cars on the road during the holidays. While some people are off work, others aren’t. Add the increased holiday traffic to the usual rush-hour traffic, and congestion becomes unavoidable. The more crowded the roads, the greater the chance for accidents to occur. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely and be patient during peak travel times. Being in a rush during the holiday congestion can be a one-way ticket to an accident.
Hazardous Weather Conditions
Rhode Island winters bring cold temperatures and lots of snow, which makes driving more dangerous. Slippery roads from ice and sleet raise the risk of drivers losing control of their vehicles. Just one small skid on an icy road can lead to a multi-car pile up. Visibility is also reduced during foggy mornings, at night or when frost covers your windshield. It’s a good idea to drive slower in poor weather conditions, keep a safe distance from other vehicles and make sure your visibility isn’t obstructed.
Crowded Parking Lots
Busy shopping centers and plazas become hotspots for accidents during the holidays. With people running errands and shopping in preparation for holiday gatherings, parking lots are usually crowded. Often, you find that people are in a rush and may not drive the most safely. Ignoring stop signs and failing to adequately check blind spots can lead to parking lot fender benders. Drive slowly, stay alert for pedestrians and always check your surroundings before backing out of a parking space.
Stress and Distractions
While the holidays bring joy, they can also bring stress. For some people, the holidays can be one of the most overwhelming times. Many people find themselves stressed and fatigued for various reasons, including money, busy schedules and holiday preparations. This makes for a dangerous combination when driving. Add kids or extra passengers into the mix, and focusing can become even more challenging. Always be on alert for distracted drivers, avoid multitasking while driving, and remember that staying calm helps keep you and everyone else safe.
Impaired Driving
Unfortunately, impaired driving spikes during the holiday season. Driving under the influence is the most common cause of car accidents in the U.S., and during the holidays, the risk is amplified. With more celebrations and social events, an increased number of drivers make the mistake of getting behind the wheel after drinking. If you plan to drink, always arrange for a safe way to get home, whether that’s by assigning a designated driver or by using a rideshare service. Even if you’re sober, stay cautious when driving at night when others may not be.
Now that you’re aware of the most common causes of car accidents during the holidays, you’re better prepared to avoid them. Still, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in an accident. If this happens, reach out to Curreri Collision for help! As a trusted Rhode Island auto body repair shop, we provide reliable, high-quality repairs in a timely manner to ensure you can get back to enjoying the holidays with your family. From damage assessment to delivering your car back to you, we make every step of the process seamless. Learn more about our process or contact us online to schedule your inspection.