Stay safe while traveling the roads this holiday season

The holiday season is one of the most dangerous times of the year for you and your loved ones to be on the roads in the St. Louis area. The number of car accidents and fatalities that occur spike considerably around this time of year. This is partially due to the increase in traffic. 

No matter when a collision occurs, the challenges car accident victims endure can be overwhelming. Many of them must deal with their injuries, property loss, lost wages and rising medical costs. These factors and more can make what is usually one of the most joyous times of the year, hard for some accident victims to deal with. To avoid finding yourself in similar shoes, take some time to review the following safety tips. 

Do not drive when it is dark 

If you can avoid it, try not to drive at night. The evening hours are when drunk driving car accidents are more likely to occur. Motorist visibility is often reduced, and there are more intoxicated motorists on the roads. 

Pay attention 

The more time you spend traveling on the road, the more likely you are to become distracted. Try to break up the monotony by taking frequent breaks. If you are trying to reach your destination by a certain time, leave early, so you have time to stop and take breaks to keep yourself from becoming distracted and tired. Do not use your cellphone to pass the time. Keep it somewhere out of sight. 

Do not drink and drive 

Drunk driving accidents are a major cause of car accidents and road fatalities. Do not drive right after drinking alcohol. Wait several hours after your last drink before you leave anywhere. Be sure to have designated drivers with you that you can rely on if you become too intoxicated. If you must travel after consuming alcohol, consider calling a Lyft, Uber or taxi ride home.

By following the above safety tips, you increase the likelihood of you making it to your family and friends car-accident free. Enjoy your holidays and share these suggestions with your loved ones.