Holiday Road Safety

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year to be on the road. Throughout this time of year, motor vehicle safety is impacted by last-minute shoppers, social visits and unpredictable weather.

Before You Hit the Road

  • Make sure that your car is ready for travel.

  • Check the tire tread, battery, antifreeze, windows and brakes.

  • Allow extra time in your schedule.

  • Have a cell phone with you if possible.

  • Avoid driving late at night. Drunk driving occurs more often during this time, especially on weekends.

Creating a Safety Kit

  • Keep a safety kit in your vehicle. This kit should include:

  • A flashlight with extra batteries

  • Jumper cables

  • First-aid kit

  • Water

  • Non-perishable food items, such as canned goods

  • Matches

  • Blankets

  • Flares

  • Ice scraper

  • Small shovel

Tips for the Road

  • Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt or is buckled into the appropriate booster seat or car seat at all times, even for short trips.

  • Avoid driving during normal sleep hours.

  • Stop for a 15-minute rest every two hours.

  • Limit driving to 350 miles per day or no more than eight hours on the road to avoid drowsy driving.

  • Travel well-lighted and busy streets whenever possible. If you need to ask directions, stop in an open, public area.

  • If you have a flat tire or other car problems, pull over to the side of the road.

  • Listening to headphones while driving is distracting and dangerous. It is safest to play music through the vehicle’s speakers.

  • Driving demands your full attention. Never talk on the phone, read or send text messages while behind the wheel.

  • Drive responsibly and obey speed limits.

  • Listen while driving. Snow can soften the sound of approaching vehicles.

Additional Holiday Road Safety Information