Many view Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial opening of the summer season, as we honor those in the military. With the many travelers expected to be out on Memorial Day weekend, it is normal to question if it is a dangerous time to be on the roads. 

On Memorial Day weekend, travelers around the country need to practice safe driving habits to protect themselves and those around them. Memorial Day weekend also has the highest average traffic fatalities than any other holiday weekend, including Labor Day, Easter, and Thanksgiving. In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 400 traffic-related fatalities happen over the busy holiday weekend. 

Research by the AAA found that almost 40 million Americans travel more than 50 miles for Memorial Day. The AAA also found that nearly 90 percent of Memorial Day travelers will reach their destination by car. With the number of people on the road, combined with many other factors, such as drowsiness, distractions, and drunk driving, it is no wonder that the holiday weekend sees a very high increase in car accidents . 

Here are a few tips to stay safe this holiday weekend:

If you plan on celebrating the start of summer with a barbecue or party, be sure to remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even one drink can cause someone to lose focus and cause an accident. If you are hosting a party and alcohol is served, organize rides home for people, or offer them to stay.

Plan on setting off on your trip during off-peak hours when the roads may be less congested, particularly between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Keep an eye on the weather and traffic reports before setting off. If you have to bring a lot of luggage with you, ensure it is secured in the vehicle and not blocking the driver’s view in the rear. 

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Distractions combined with heavy traffic is often deadly. Limit distractions by giving someone else your phone and have them do the navigating instead of the driver looking at their phone constantly. Also, if traveling with kids, have tablets and headphones and make sure they know not to distract the driver. 

It is good to drive defensively with the amount of traffic expected on Memorial Day weekend. Cautious driving involves going the speed limit and leaving enough room between yourself and others. Remember not to drive aggressively, and always be aware of your surroundings. Finally, make sure everyone in your car is buckled up. 

Before any road trip, you want to have your vehicle running in good condition. This means getting an oil change and having your tires and brakes checked by a certified mechanic. After a harsh winter, you want to ensure your battery is still good as well as your wiper blades. Ensure your tires are set to the correct pressures, have a full gas tank, and have all your fluids topped off before embarking. 

Memorial Day weekend can be dangerous due to more drivers on the road. If you become injured in an accident, contact our Mt. Holly car accident lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman . Call us at 856-751-2345 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.

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