Essential Tips To Drive Safely And Avoid Accidents This Festive Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, we unfortunately also see an uptick in traffic, unfavorable weather conditions, and distracted drivers on the road. For this purpose, it is wise to drive a trusted car from the Kia dealership in Las Vegas. 

Review these tips we have put together to help ensure you when preparing to take on the winter roads. October till January may be full of holiday cheer, but they also come with dangerous driving conditions. Keep yourself—and your loved ones—safe this season by following the tips below.

Drinking & Driving

During the holiday season, drinking is frequently increased due to the pleasure of social gatherings that occur at a higher rate during this time of year.

If you know you must drive later, don't drink. Furthermore, be extra careful when going with other drivers who may be under the influence. Maintain a safe distance from others and watch for drivers who may be intoxicated behind the wheel.

Especially if you are driving your used trucks in Las Vegas, it is important to keep an eye on all of the different things that could potentially pop up and ruin your driving experience.

Drowsy Driving 

The winter season is linked with more people catching the common cold or other illnesses owing to the chilly weather, making them more likely to take medicine to cure their symptoms. 

If you find yourself caught up in this scenario, make sure you don't take any medications that might cause drowsiness if you intend to drive that day.

Driving fatigue is frequently caused by longer driving distances and staying out late during the winter season. It is easy to get caught up in the moment and lose track of time when you're enjoying quality time with the family during holiday celebrations. If you know you'll be driving home after a party, keep an eye on the clock to guarantee that you'll be awake enough to drive safely once you've left.

If you plan on driving a long way, such as to another state, schedule some rest before you leave. If you feel tired while going, you can take a nap and be refreshed to continue your journey safely. When traveling with others, another recommendation for preventing driver fatigue is to switch drivers at set intervals, so everyone gets a chance to rest. 

With the convenience of a new Kia Sportage for sale, you can make each long distance trip as pleasurable as possible.

Distracted Driving

It's no secret that technological progress and general technology use have exploded in recent decades, with particular emphasis on those who utilize their phone for work and personal purposes. With this in mind, avoid being lured into the traps of phone usage while driving at any time.

It's advised that you don't use your phone while driving, as it can be a distraction and cause accidents. Although it's tempting to check an incoming text or glance at your Instagram feed for a few seconds, doing so can put you off course and put yourself and others at risk of collision. 

Keep an eye on your actions and be vigilant for other drivers who may not be paying attention behind the wheel to ensure that roads are safe.

As previously said, this time of year is associated with more travel, so make sure your automobile is free from distractions to help you stay focused on the road ahead. 

Ensure children are properly buckled in and engaged to avoid disturbing you while driving. Furthermore, when traveling with pets, it's also vital to ensure they're secure, so you can focus on getting to your destination without being distracted.

Road Conditions & Black Ice 

Autumn and winter weather can come without warning, leaving you in hazardous driving circumstances such as snow, ice, hail, and sub-freezing temperatures. Stay updated on the weather situation in your area to be aware of any potentially hazardous conditions that could make driving more dangerous. 

Staying informed about the incoming weather might allow you to plan your route, choose which roads you're most comfortable driving on, and use appropriate lighting to ensure visibility.

The following pointers are a few suggestions to assist you in avoiding any automobile accidents or injuries caused by black ice on the highway, which generally develops during winter evenings and mornings:

• Lighting 

The best way to prevent black ice is by driving on roads with proper lighting and turning on your headlights. Although it can be hard to see, black ice usually has a sheen, making it easier to identify. Be sure to schedule service at our service center in Las Vegas if you need new headlights.

• Drive slowly 

Maintaining a safe speed on the road helps to assure that your car does not skid out of control if you encounter black ice.

• Stay calm 

If you encounter black ice and start to skid, remember to remain calm, avoid violently turning your steering wheel, remove your foot from the accelerator, and lightly pump the brakes to prevent yourself from spinning out of control. 

Overall Safety Measures 

Before winter sets in, take preventative measures to ensure you're ready for whatever the season brings. First things first: check your car tires to see that they have enough tread, and also test out the heating controls to ensure they work properly. 

Next, replace any headlights or taillights that may be burned out, and finally - always keep an ice scraper (and maybe even a few extra tools) in your vehicle, so you're never caught off guard if driving conditions are less than ideal.

For a more enjoyable road trip, include the following items in your safety/emergency kit: coffee, juice, some snacks for sharing (such as granola bars), and toiletries. To prevent being stranded without proper supplies if an issue arises, put a safety/emergency kit in your car at all times. Always remember to wear a seatbelt as well as ask the passengers to wear their seatbelts while on the road to keep everyone as safe as possible. 

Final Thoughts

The festive season is a time for family, friends, and fun. But it can also be a time for hazardous driving conditions. Follow these essential tips to stay safe and avoid accidents this holiday season. Drive defensively, don't drink and drive, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. 

Plan ahead, allow plenty of time for your journey, and take regular breaks along the way. Most importantly, enjoy yourself – but do so safely! Wishing you all a happy and safe festive season!