As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are setting out to visit friends and family away from home. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 40 million people are expected to take a trip of more than 50 miles over the Thanksgiving holiday. Road trips are the most popular form of holiday travel, with 95 percent of travelers driving to their destination. Taking a few preventative measures before hitting the road greatly reduces the possibility of car accidents along the way.
Avoiding a Car Accident in New Jersey
Prepare the vehicle. Ensuring a safe road trip begins well before the car leaves the driveway. Perform basic maintenance on your vehicle so that it is ready for the road. Make sure wipers are in working order. Check the condition of all tires. Make sure fluids, heating, and cooling systems have all been recently serviced.
Plan your route. Map out and become familiar with the route you are taking to your destination. Know the highway and exit numbers you are looking for so you do not become distracted by looking at directions or a map. Last minute lane changes cause car accidents. Automated GPS systems that announce directions are a safe way to get from here to there. Account for any possible roadwork or repairs in your itinerary.
Check the weather. Especially when traveling far from home, you may encounter drastic changes in weather. Prepare accordingly. Have a back-up plan in the event that severe weather leads to dangerous conditions or road closures. Account for weather-related delays in your timetable, so you are not rushing to reach your destination.
Pack for emergencies. Every car should contain an emergency kit at all times. Pack flares, flashlights, blankets, non-perishable snacks, water, a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, a battery-operated radio, and jumper cables in your emergency kit. In the event of a car accident, having a few simple supplies ensures your safety until help arrives.
With a few simple safety precautions, your trip will go off without a hitch. Planning ahead gives you the peace of mind to safely enjoy your road trip, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Folkman Law Offices, P.C. Fight for Car Accident Victims
If you are the victim of a car accident in South Jersey, the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Folkman Law Offices, P.C. may help. Our personal injury lawyers are committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for your case. Call our South Jersey office at 856-354-9444 or complete our online contact form to start. Folkman Law has convenient offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, as well as Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. We serve clients across Camden County, South Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
