How Should Drivers Prepare for Labor Day Weekend?

Labor Day weekend remains one of the busiest holiday weekends of the year. Labor Day weekend offers a chance for families to travel, go to gatherings, run last-minute errands before school, and enjoy time outdoors.

Since so many people drive around Labor Day, there is an increase in car accidents and fatalities. Recently, more than 3,500 people were killed because of car crashes that occurred during Labor Day weekend. However, motorists can lessen their likelihood of being involved in crashes by taking some precautionary safety measures.

What Should I Do if I Plan to Drink During the Holiday Weekend?

Many people go to parties and picnics during Labor Day weekend. Often, these events feature alcoholic beverages. Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents are common on Labor Day weekend and other holidays.

Drivers who have been drinking should relinquish their keys to someone who has not been drinking or should find a safer way to get home. Drivers can use public transportation or a rideshare company.

How Should I Prepare My Car for the Holiday Weekend?

Individuals, couples, and families who plan to go away during Labor Day weekend should always take some time to check their vehicles before heading out. Inspecting the pressure in tires, checking headlights, tail lights, and fluid levels can avoid breakdowns along the highways.

In addition, drivers should make sure that their vehicle includes an emergency roadside assistance kit in the back seat or trunk.

All Motorists Should Avoid Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a huge problem throughout the United States. Motorists should turn off their electronics and focus on the road. The only people who should text in a vehicle are passengers.

Teaching Young Drivers Safety Tips

Parents are in a great position to help newer drivers navigate safely during Labor Day weekend. Younger drivers may not have the know-how and expertise to understand what to do in traffic jams, how to deal with sudden thunderstorms, or even what to do if they get into a fender-bender. Giving a new motorist a few reminders and tips can make their travels safer.

Everyone in the Car Must Wear a Seat Belt

Everyone in the car needs to wear a seat belt. Still, some people do not think that this rule pertains to them.

Seat belts save countless lives every year, and drivers and passengers should routinely wear them. Every motorist should insist that seat belts must be worn, including passengers who sit in the last row of an SUV.

How can I Keep Young Passengers Safe in My Car?

Many injuries suffered by babies and kids who are involved in car accidents could be mitigated if the children were secured in the proper type of seat.

Babies need to be in rear-facing car seats until they are the proper weight and height to transition into sitting in front-facing car seats. After that point, they should ride in that type of car seat until they can move on to a booster seat.

Always Follow Posted Speed Limits

Traffic can move fast, especially on the highways around major metropolitan areas like Chicago and city suburbs. Nevertheless, drivers need to take precautionary measures to make certain that they are staying within posted speed limits.

Also, getting a speeding ticket can be costly, particularly if it is a second or third offense.

What Should I Do if I Feel Tired While Driving?

Getting behind the wheel of a car while drowsy can be as bad as getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. When someone is sleep deprived and operating a car, they cannot make wise or fast decisions.

It is always best to get sleep rather than try to drive home while tired. Even though it might be inconvenient to stay an extra night at a hotel or ask to sleep on a friend’s sofa, it is always the right and responsible choice.

What Should I Know About Rental Cars?

Renting a car for Labor Day weekend travels may be a great way to avoid taking public transportation. However, it is important to drive the rental car around the neighborhood before venturing out.

Rental cars should be evaluated because these vehicles tend to go through a lot of wear and tear. The last thing any rental car customer wants is to have problems while on the road.

Avoid Road Congestion and Construction Areas

Drivers should take time to download a travel app. Travel applications and navigational devices will help drivers find the best available routes.

Driving very late at night or early in the morning can also help alleviate problems. Common hazards include road congestion and construction areas.

Prepare Refreshments

Drivers and passengers should always carry some extra food and water with them on long trips. Drivers may not know where the next rest stop will be, especially if they are traveling on unfamiliar routes.

What Should I Do if I am Driving Near a Large Truck?

While on the road, motorists should always be aware that big rigs have several blind spots. These blind spots are located directly behind and in front of the truck, as well as to the left and right rear back sides. Drivers should make an effort to pass around truckers whenever it is possible.

What Should After a Car Accident?

Sometimes, car accidents are unavoidable, even while being extra cautious. If a driver is in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. When possible, an injured driver should always contact a lawyer about filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Edwardsville Car Wreck Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Work with Victims Injured in Labor Day Weekend Car Crashes

Labor Day weekend is a great time to travel, but car accidents increase around the holiday weekend. If you were involved in a car accident, contact one of our Edwardsville car wreck lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 618-277-3644. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients throughout Belleville, Carbondale, East St. Louis, Granite City, Edwardsville, Chester, Waterloo, St. Louis, Madison County, St. Clair County, Monroe County, and Randolph County.