Roadway Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend Traffic

Ward Black Law | | Auto Accidents

As pandemic-related restrictions and travel hesitancy continue to dissolve throughout the U.S., local authorities urge drivers to stay safe and plan for Memorial Day weekend. Reports predicted that roughly 60 percent more people would travel more than 50 miles away from home for Memorial Day in 2021 compared to 2020 – and holiday traffic could increase even more in 2022.

With this in mind, the Greensboro car accident attorneys at Ward Black Law have provided the following tips to help you reach your destination safely as traffic surges this Memorial Day Weekend.

Make it to your destination safely this Memorial Day weekend courtesy of these tips from Ward Black Law.

Have Your Car Serviced

Have your car inspected and repaired as necessary to ensure the following essential components, systems, and safety features are in good shape, such as:

  • Tire pressure, tread depth, and rotation
  • Spare tire and portable car jack
  • Windshield wiper blades and washer fluid
  • Battery, spark plugs, and lights
  • Oil, coolant, and other fluid levels

Pack a Bag of Essentials in Case of Emergencies

In the event of a roadside emergency, you’ll want to keep a bag packed with “survival kit” items such as:

  • Rain protection
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlights
  • Fresh batteries
  • Road flares or cones
  • Shop rags or towels
  • Drinking water
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Basic tools
  • Battery or solar device chargers

Plan Ahead to Avoid Peak Traffic Times

In previous years, analysts have predicted peak traffic congestion during the late afternoons and early evenings leading up to holiday weekends, especially between 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. To avoid delays, consider traveling before or after peak hours and planning your return trip for Monday when fewer people are on the road.

Get Plenty of Rest Before You Drive

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cognitive effects of going 24 hours without sleep are equivalent to the impact of a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit. Allow yourself plenty of time for good quality rest anytime you plan to drive.

Never Drive While Impaired

You probably know that driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more is illegal. Still, you may not know that even relatively small amounts of alcohol or drugs can significantly impair driving ability. If you plan to partake this Memorial Day weekend, find a reliable designated driver.

Put Your Phone Down and Avoid Distractions

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), our eyes are occupied for an average of five seconds any time we send or read a text. If a driver chooses to text while driving at just 55 mph, they can effectively travel the length of a football field without looking at the road ahead. You can avoid dangerous driving distractions by putting your phone away and adjusting vehicle controls before driving.

Allow Yourself Plenty of Extra Travel Time

If you intend to drive long distances this Memorial Day weekend, give yourself plenty of extra travel time and take safety precautions such as:

  • Planning to take a break once every 100 miles or two hours
  • Traveling with a companion who can keep you alert and share the drive
  • Taking extra care when driving on monotonous roads
  • Stopping in safe locations to rest or nap when needed

If You Were Injured in an Accident Due to Another Party’s Negligence, Call the Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers at Ward Black Law

No one plans on being injured in a car accident on Memorial Day. If the unthinkable happens and a negligent driver harms you, turn to the Greensboro car accident attorneys at Ward Black Law. Call or text (336) 333-2244 or contact us now for a free case review.