Labor Day Weekend is upon us. Labor Day is a time where we honor the contribution that workers of all kinds make to the stability and prosperity of our great nation. This weekend is a time traditionally associated with celebrations that require traveling and fun with family and friends. However, we have learned that this weekend has seen unfortunate incidents on the road over the years. According to The Texas Department of Transportation, last year alone there were an estimated 4,609 crashes on Texas roads over the Labor Day weekend.
Here we’ll revisit a few safety tips to ensure that you stay safe on the road and in the inevitable crowds drawn over the weekend.
Dealing with Crowds
Many people will gravitate towards vacation spots like beaches and amusement parks this Labor Day weekend. While few crowded areas are places of ill intent on a festival weekend, they are still fertile grounds for accidents. Stay on the edges of crowds and avoid cutting through the crowd so as you don’t get trapped in the middle. If you’re travelling with kids be sure to keep them close to you at all times. Make sure that all members of your group or family establish a meeting place should you get separated. Crowds can be overwhelming during busy weekends that can have festivals and celebrations for communities. be sure that you are sticking with your group and keeping away from the middle of the crowds.
Be Prepared when Traveling
Many enjoy traveling over the Labor Day weekend as a way to end their summers. make sure that you are prepared! Before you hit the road make sure that your car is packed with the following essentials:
- Bottled water
- A first aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Spare tire, jack and lug wrench
- Air pump
- Tire pressure gauge
- Multitool
- Flash light
- Tow strap
- Duct tape
Staying Alert on the Road
Drowsy driving accounts for many fatalities every year. Keep fatigue at bay with regular stops (getting there late is better than never getting there at all). You should also take steps to stay well fed and well hydrated. Avoid depending on coffee and processed fatty, sugary or salty snacks at rest stops. These may give you an initial jolt of energy, but this will wear off soon and you’ll start to crash pretty hard after a couple of hours. Pack a cool box of nutritious snacks and keep plenty of bottled water in the car.
The Text Can Wait
Also, Remember that distracted driving can be every bit as fatal as intoxicated driving. Driving while distracted by an electronic device, can limit your hazard perception and impair your judgment. Be proactive and install an app that will disable incoming communications while you’re driving. No text or call is important enough to risk your safety or that of others.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Always remember to never drink and drive. You are putting yourself as well as others at risk when you get behind the wheel after drinking. If you know that you are going to be drinking, plan ahead of time a safe way to get to and from your locations. Using a rideshare program or a local taxi are options available to you. You can always designate a driver to make sure everyone in the group returns safely from festivities. If you see someone attempt to get behind the wheel after drinking, take their keys and help arrange safe transportation home.
Davis Law Firm is Here 4 You!
We at Davis Law Firm we want to remind you to stay safe when traveling and attending festivities this weekend. If you find yourself injured in an accident, you can always contact us at (210) 444-4444, (956) 444-4444 or (361) 444-4444. Our team of legal representatives offer free initial consultation. Davis Law Firm is here 24/7 for you!