This is the season for cheerful giving, but travel safety is important for any time of the year.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), last year more than 112 million Americans were expected to travel for the holidays. This year that number is anticipated to increase by at least 2 million.
To keep you safe on the roads during your end-of-the-year celebrations, the North Carolina Department of Transportation encourages all drivers to:
- Never drink and drive. Always have a designated driver, use a ride sharing service, or call a taxi if you do plan to drink.
- Map your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads. If possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic. DriveNC.gov is an excellent resource for real-time travel information.
- Don’t drive distracted. Put the phone away. Disconnect and drive. Avoid behaviors such as eating, applying make-up and adjusting the navigation system.
- Have your roadside assistance contact information on hand in case an incident occurs on the road. The NCDOT State Farm Safety Patrol is also available to provide free assistance regardless of your insurance provider.
- Keep a cell phone and charger with you at all times, in case of emergency.
- Obey traffic safety laws: Wear your seatbelt. Don’t speed. Drive according to the weather and road conditions.
- With more traffic, expect delays and incidents on the side of the road. Obey the Move Over Law.
- Be patient. Understand that everyone is in a hurry to get to their destination. Use turn signals and give drivers space.