Travel
Staying Safe this Holiday Season:Driving Advice for The Big Apple
Staying safe on the roads is the goal for all NYC residents. Here's a few tips for the upcoming Holiday season.
For many, as soon as cool weather hits, thoughts of the holiday season arise! From Halloween and Thanksgiving to December holidays and New Year’s, the last few months of the year are usually packed with parties and spending quality time with loved ones. Amongst all of the hustle and bustle of the season, traffic starts to pick up quite a bit, requiring even more of a need for awareness on the roads. Check out these 5 driving tips for you and your family members to keep in mind this holiday season.
1. Remove Ice and Snow from Your Vehicle
Remove any snow off of your car and make sure your windows are completely defrosted before you head out on the road. If you’re in a rush, don’t wait to defrost your windows until while you’re already driving. It’s so important to give yourself an unobstructed view of the road.
2. Get Enough Rest Beforehand
Holiday gatherings can often mean getting a lot less sleep than you normally would. Fewer hours of sunlight in the day can also play a role in drowsiness. If you’re on a long car ride to visit friends or family, take as many breaks as you need throughout the drive or switch off driving with a passenger.
3. Keep Your Car Maintained
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Keep a spare tire with your vehicle at all times, and make sure all of your tires are properly inflated. Check fluids regularly. It’s crucial to have an emergency kit in your car fully equipped with blankets, flashlights, jumper cables and any basic tools. The last thing you want is to be stranded in cold weather somewhere!
4. Always Have a Designated Driver
The holiday season means lots of celebration and even more reason to be cautious on the roads. According to Davis, Saperstein & Salomon in New York, 62% of fatal alcohol-related crashes take place over the weekend when celebrations are in full force. Always have a designated driver, but also be alert and keep your eyes open for other drivers who may be impaired.
5. Park in Well-Lit Areas and Keep Valuables in the Trunk
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There is typically an increase in crime around the holidays, so be careful of what you have in your vehicle. If you’ll be out at night, park in a well-lit area. If you have valuables or holiday presents in your car, make sure to keep them in your trunk so they’re completely out of sight.
