Know Your Road Driver Responsibilities This Holiday Season

With the holiday season in full swing, roads are bustling and becoming more challenging to navigate. In fact, they can be so hard to navigate that the National Safety Council estimates there may be 375 fatalities during the New Year’s holiday period, making it a critical time to remind ourselves of our responsibilities as drivers, both inside and outside our vehicles. 

Here’s what you need to know to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season on the roads.

Your Responsibilities Outside the Vehicle

Our responsibilities begin before we even start the engine. Every step we take outside the vehicle can impact our safety and driving experience during the festive season. 

Vehicle maintenance: Before setting off, ensure your brakes, tires, lights, and battery are all in tip-top shape. Remember, good tire tread is a must if you’ll be driving on icy roads. 

Plan your route: Familiarize yourself with your travel route and stay updated on any potential changes in road conditions. Use reliable sources like traffic apps and local news sites to check for road closures or traffic delays.

Stay informed: Winter weather can be a wildcard. Keep an eye on forecasts and be ready for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

Your Responsibilities Inside the Vehicle

Once you’re behind the wheel, the focus shifts to maintaining a safe and controlled driving environment.

Focus on the road: Keep distractions at bay and give the road your undivided attention. This might mean putting your phone away, lowering the music, or controlling chatter among passengers in the car.

Buckle up: Seat belts are a non-negotiable this season and year round, and kids should be buckled up securely in their car seats. 

Adapt your driving: Slow and steady wins the race in adverse weather. Increase your following distance, and be mindful that stopping distances grow when the roads are icy or wet. 

Be ready for emergencies: Keep an emergency kit in your car filled with winter essentials, such as blankets, flashlights, a first aid kit, spare device chargers, extra water, and some snacks just in case. 

What Else Do You Need to Know This Season?

The holiday season brings unique challenges on the road. Being mindful of these additional factors before you head out on your next holiday adventure. 

Increased traffic: The holidays are synonymous with busy roads, with shopping trips, holiday parties, and family visits contributing to increased traffic. Plan for longer travel times and remember, patience is key.

Night driving: The days are at their shortest, so chances are you’ll be driving more in the dark. Ensure your car’s headlights are in good condition for better visibility. Slow down and be extra cautious, as it’s harder to spot pedestrians and obstacles at night. 

Snow and ice challenges: If you live in a snowy area, or are planning to visit one, you need to take extra steps to stay safe on the road. Familiarize yourself with techniques for driving on slippery roads, and, if necessary, equip your vehicle with the right winter gear like snow chains or all-weather tires.

Holiday stress: The holidays, while joyous, can also bring heightened stress levels, which can impact your driving. Stay calm behind the wheel, take breaks if you feel overwhelmed, and avoid rushing. A relaxed driver is a safe driver.

Holiday celebrations: The festive season often involves celebrations with alcohol — and increased risk of getting in an accidnet. In 2020, during the short period between Christmas and New Year’s, there were 209 fatalities related to impaired driving. Plan ahead for a designated driver or alternative transportation if you’re going to indulge. 

Pedestrian traffic: From excited children viewing Christmas lights to busy holiday shoppers, more pedestrians are out and about on the streets during the holidays. While driving, be especially vigilant in residential areas and near shopping areas. 

Parking lot safety: Crowded shopping centers mean busting parking lots. Drive slowly, watch for pedestrians, and be patient when looking for a parking spot. Also, remember to lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight to prevent theft. 

Register for a driver’s education course and get the essential driving tips you need to stay safe during the holiday season — and year round.