With Christmas and New Years’ just around the corner, South Carolina residents can expect to see an influx of holiday travelers and tourists. Unfortunately, out-of-towners usually aren’t prepared to drive in unfamiliar areas and may be compelled to practice reckless or distracted driving behaviors, especially if they depend on their cell phones for GPS directions. To be fair, it isn’t just travelers who are guilty of these dangerous driving habits. In fact, South Carolina is ranked as the 3rd most dangerous state for car accidents. But with lost travelers, negligent drivers, and inebriated party-goers all sharing the road, it’s no wonder that emergency rooms are flooded every December and January.
To help you stay safe this holiday season, the Charleston car accident lawyers at Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC have compiled the following list of traveling tips:
- Check the weather before leaving your home or workplace
- Plan your trip and make sure vehicle is ready for travel
- Make sure you’re well-rested
- Always leave early so you can avoid speeding
- Wear your seatbelt at all times
- Look out for inebriated jaywalkers and pedestrians, especially on holiday nights
- Make sure your lights are on at night, particularly in residential areas
- Observe local and state traffic laws
- Devote 100% of your attention to driving defensively
- Be aware of other drivers and prepare for the unexpected
- Keep a 2-4-second cushion between you and the car in front of you
- Avoid using cruise control, especially in poor weather
- Turn on your headlights if it’s raining or snowing
- Don’t engage with aggressive drivers
- Never drive while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Expect traffic and be respectful of other drivers
- Take breaks to avoid drowsy driving
- Pull over to eat or drink
- Keep an emergency kit in your car
- Put your phone where you can’t reach it
Injured by a Reckless Driver? Fight for Damages Today
Sadly, you can take every precaution and still be injured by the actions of a reckless or distracted driver. Motor vehicle accidents frequently lead to devastating injuries that can change the trajectory of a survivor’s life forever. If you’re injured by a negligent driver this holiday season, contact the Charleston car accident attorneys at Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC. Our experienced legal team can represent your case and help you recover compensation that provides for your physical and financial recovery.
Call Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC at (843) 968-0886 to schedule a consultation.