Tis the holiday season yet again. Many of us will be hitting the road to shop for gifts, visit family and friends, or go on a holiday vacation. We want to encourage everyone to be extra careful when traveling, especially during this time of year.
California's drought will likely contribute to higher traffic collisions this year. Longer than usual dry roads mixed with unexpected rain and snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. Since 2019 California has been in a drought, giving roads plenty of time to build up oils, residue, and debris for months at a time. This makes highways, roads, and streets especially slippery when rain and snow finally fall. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, "weather acts through visibility impairments, precipitation, high winds, and temperature extremes to affect driver capabilities, vehicle performance (i.e., traction, stability and maneuverability), pavement friction, roadway infrastructure, crash risk, traffic flow, and agency productivity."
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more car crash fatalities during the holidays, which is associated with increased traffic, travel time, more alcohol consumption, and excessive driving speeds. For example, 2021 set a 16-year high for traffic fatalities. "[A]n estimated 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes last year, a 10.5% increase from the 38,824 fatalities in 2020." The projection is the highest number of fatalities since 2005; if the trend continues, 2022 will be even deadlier.
For these reasons, it is important to be extra cautious when driving this holiday season.
Here Are A Few Tips to Practice During Your Holiday Travels
Check the weather and road conditions
Set your navigation before you start driving
Check your tires
Make sure to have appropriate equipment and tools for your trip (i.e., snow chains)
Wear your seatbelt, and make sure everyone in your car is also wearing their seatbelt
Avoid rear-ending the car in front of you by leaving enough space between them, which should provide you sufficient space and time to brake
Don't drink and drive – Plan to have a designated driver if you are going to consume alcohol
Minimize distractions – use hands-free devices and features, and never text and drive
From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!
Have A Question?
If you or someone you know was injured due to the negligent driving of another, including drunk driving, speeding, or texting while driving – call the Law Offices of Tanya Gomerman for a FREE consultation at (415) 545-8608 or email us at info@gobolaw.com.
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