This is the season for holiday road trips and winter driving, a combination that requires your full attention to remain safe on the roads. While you cannot plan ahead for weather conditions or predict how the drivers you share the road with will behave their are some precautions you can take. The holidays are supposed to be a fun and exciting time, so follow these tips to drive safe this holiday season to avoid accidents:
Tip #1: Plan Ahead
Before you start any road trip, plan ahead in some capacity. Doing so allows for less rushing the day you leave, making for a clear head and a happy drive. You’ll probably map the route, check the weather and traffic, and make sure you pack all the right items. These are all helpful things to have on your to-do list before you embark on your journey—as long as you don’t forget to put gas in the car!
Tip #2: Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Car accidents are among the leading causes of unintentional deaths in the United States. That’s why it’s vital to always be aware of your surroundings, like what’s ahead of you, behind you, and in your blind spots.
Be sure to also stay out of other drivers’ blind spots, especially if there are trucks on the road. Others should always check their blind spots before merging, but it’s wise for you to always err on the side of caution. A good rule of thumb for checking your surroundings is frequently checking your mirrors and always scanning the road up to 30 feet in front of you.
Tip #3: Don’t Depend on Other Drivers
Almost everybody has had their fair share of witnessing unsafe drivers on the road. While you can’t control what they do, you can control what you do.
While you should always look out for others around you, it’s a good idea never to assume that others will do the “right” thing. This might include expecting others to give you room to merge, wait appropriately for their turn at a stop sign, or checking their blind spots before switching lanes. Always double-check those around you before you make a decision on the road.
Tip #4: Follow the Three-Second Rule
Maintaining a safe following distance is also referred to as the “three-second rule.” The three-second rule states that you should leave at least three seconds of driving space between your vehicle and the one in front of you at all times.
The three-second rule is an essential one to follow because if the other driver comes to a sudden stop, you have enough time to react and stop your vehicle. You can time yourself by choosing an inanimate object on the road, like a tree, and count how many seconds pass between you and the other car. Try this trick next time you’re in the car!
Tip #5: Cut Out Any Distractions
In 2018, nearly three thousand people were killed in car accidents caused by distracted drivers. Distracted driving is rarely intentional, but it can be easy for people to get caught up with other things, like:
- Passengers who are talking loudly
- Texting or receiving calls on your cell phone
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Listening to or changing the radio station
- What’s going on around you outside the car
Highway hypnosis
As humans, we often think that our brains are capable of multitasking. This isn’t true—especially if you’re behind the wheel. So, if you’re multitasking by doing any of the above examples, then you’re legally considered a distracted driver. Do your best to look straight ahead and keep focus.
Tip #6: Arrange Safe Transportation If You Plan to Drink
Not only is driving under the influence highly illegal, but it’s incredibly dangerous if you’re in an unfamiliar area where mistakes can easily be made. In fact, nearly 100 people die every year on major holidays due to drunk driving.
If you plan to drink during the holidays use a designated driver
While increased alcohol consumption can be expected on any given holiday, it’s wise to plan your ride home, especially if you plan to drink more than one drink every hour. The good news is that you have plenty of options: You can carpool with a designated driver, spend the night at the host’s house, or call a taxi once you’re ready to leave.
Conclusion
Most everybody looks forward to the holiday season—but what they dread most is the actual traveling time. With thousands of more people on the roads, car accidents are several times more likely to occur on these days.
If you plan to travel on the next holiday, the best thing you can do is to abide by these safe driving tips:
- Plan ahead
- Always be aware of your surroundings
- Don’t depend on other drivers to do the “right” thing
- Abide by the three-second rule while driving
- Cut out any distractions
- Don’t drive if you plan to drink
If you want to learn more about handling driving on major holidays, you could take a defensive driving course to sharpen your skills. DriveSafe Online offers the best deal on defensive driving courses—and the best part is that you can get a hefty discount on your auto insurance too!
Follow these driving safety tips for all of your holiday driving this season to stay safe and minimize your chances of an accident.
Spanish Speaking Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
Spanish-speaking individuals can have a more difficult time seeking justice in their personal injury cases due to language barriers. This causes them to not take action against those who have left them with financial devastation and physical trauma. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, our team refuses to let a language barrier affect your right to justice and compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and is in need of Spanish-speaking legal advice, our team is here for you.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident and suffered an injury, experienced loss of income, or are unable to work due to a car accident, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert in your personal injury case. Whether you missed work due to an injury or due to not having access to a vehicle, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers can help you!
Caruthers Law Firm
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 400
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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In the aftermath of an accident that leaves you or a loved one injured, it is crucial to know where to turn for support and justice. The Caruthers Law Firm stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment to the cause of pursuing justice for injury victims. With a track record that speaks volumes about our dedication to excellence and passion for our clients, we have garnered recognition throughout the Houston area as a trusted name in the legal community. When you or a family member suffers an injury due to the negligence of another, the need for an attorney who is not just competent but also recognized for their excellence becomes paramount. The Houston personal injury attorney at The Caruthers Law Firm fits that bill precisely. We have earned accolades and trust from our clients because we don not just handle cases; we champion causes. Our cases frequently involve traumatic, life-altering events, such as the loss of a loved one, and our relentless pursuit of justice ensures our clients receive the compensation necessary to secure their financial future. Our dedicated efforts have successfully secured over $50 million in settlements for our clients, and our commitment to excellence has brought us national recognition, particularly in fields like birth injury law. Whether your life has been upended by a tragic accident or the negligence of another party, you can confide in Caruthers Law Firm to handle your case with the utmost skill, dedication, and compassion in your time of need. Every case we undertake is treated with the gravity and importance it deserves, and we strive to provide the best possible representation to our clients. At Caruthers Law Firm, our attorneys boast an impressive array of knowledge and expertise in various practice areas, including personal injury, criminal defense, wrongful death, and more. We fully acknowledge that each case is unique, and we value the individual concerns and needs of our clients. This understanding leads us to craft tailored legal strategies that address each case is distinctive challenges. When you choose Caruthers Law Firm as your legal representation, you can expect a high degree of professionalism, unwavering integrity, and an unparalleled commitment from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates for your rights, dedicated to securing the justice you deserve.
For over three decades, Beverly R. Caruthers has been on an unwavering mission to provide her clients with top-notch, tenacious, and compassionate legal services and representation. Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has not only amassed extensive experience but has also consistently delivered high-quality legal assistance to those who have sought her counsel. Her journey to legal expertise began with academic distinction, having graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Tougaloo College, followed by the acquisition of her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. With a primary focus on Personal Injury, Criminal Law, and Business Law, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has honed her legal acumen in these pivotal areas. Complementing her knowledge and skills, The Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers is fortified by a collaborative team of seasoned and highly qualified attorneys. Together, they work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for each and every client they serve. In the Caruthers family, the pursuit of legal excellence seems to be a cherished tradition. Briona Caruthers, following in the footsteps of her older brother and colleague, hails from Missouri City, Texas, where she graduated from Elkins High School in 2015. Venturing outside her hometown, she spent four years at Hofstra University in New York, where she diligently earned her Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies in Business in 2019. After her academic journey in New York, she returned to her roots in Houston, Texas. There, she attended the same illustrious institution where her mother, Beverly R. Caruthers, and her brothers, Eddie and Parker Caruthers, had studied—the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. In 2022, Briona graduated Cum Laude from TSU, thereby continuing the family legacy. Beyond her legal pursuits, Briona finds solace in retail therapy and enjoys exploring the world through her travels when she is not in the office, fervently advocating for her clients rights. Parker Caruthers, another member of the Caruthers family, was born and raised in Missouri City, Texas, where he completed his high school education at Clements High School in 2012. His educational journey took him to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in 2017. Parker commitment to legal studies led him to the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at TSU, from where he graduated in 2021. During his time in law school, Parker legal prowess shone through as he secured victory in the Helen Dawn Williams Mock Trial competition, all while gaining valuable experience through internships at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Opting to take a different path by not pursuing prosecution, Parker joined Caruthers Law Firm in 2021. Beyond the legal realm, Parker passions extend to sports fandom and his role as a proud dog owner. At the Caruthers Law Firm, we take a refreshingly transparent and candid approach when assessing our potential clients circumstances. We believe in clear, honest, and direct communication, leaving aside the legal jargon to speak in terms that our clients can readily understand. Each client is treated as a unique individual, receiving personalized and attentive care throughout their legal journey with us.
We are immensely grateful to each and every individual who wholeheartedly contributed to the success of "The Christmas Toy Drive and Giveaway" and "The Back to School Giveaway" right here in the vibrant city of Houston. Your support has made a profound difference in the lives of countless local children, and it is a testament to the incredible community spirit that defines our city. At The Caruthers Law Firm, we take great pride in being active sponsors of these important initiatives, which focus on providing crucial resources to Houstons youth. Some of the recipients come from families struggling with limited income, making it challenging for them to provide the necessary school supplies for their children. For others, the prospect of a joyous Christmas was a distant dream due to a lack of toys. In these circumstances, we aimed to make a meaningful and positive impact on these children and their families. It is through the unwavering support and dedication of our local community that we were able to realize this vision. We encourage you to consider joining us in this noble cause and be a part of the change in the lives of Houston families. Your involvement can take various forms, whether through donating items, contributing funds, or taking the initiative to organize a collection drive within your organization, church, club, or local community. Your support will undoubtedly go a long way in touching the lives of those in need, ensuring that every child in our city can look forward to a brighter future. By working together, we not only provide essential items but also instill a sense of hope, compassion, and generosity within our beloved Houston community. Together, we can create a stronger, more caring, and inclusive community, one that continues to uplift and empower those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of this vital mission.
