Tips for Making Your Labor Day Travel Safer

Traveling during the Labor Day holiday weekend marks the end of summer vacation for many families. Unfortunately, it also frequently includes a higher incidence of traffic accidents and fatalities. Every Labor Day weekend, traffic fatalities spike due to irresponsible behavior and drunk driving. So, what can you do to minimize your chances of being involved in an accident this Labor Day Weekend? Below are several common-sense guidelines to help make your holiday travel safer:

Five Ways to Make Your Labor Day Safer

1. Avoid Drinking and Driving – Drunk driving is one of the top causes of holiday traffic fatalities. Don’t contribute to the problem. If you are out with family or friends, make sure someone is the designated driver or be prepared to hail a ride with rideshare apps.
2. Don’t Drive Drowsy – Many of us have a long way to travel on this holiday weekend, so it’s important to get rest before you travel and take lots of breaks. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
3. Don’t Text and Drive – Texting and driving can be even more dangerous than driving while drowsy or intoxicated. You should set your phone to silent while driving or set up a handsfree interface to interact with your phone.
4. Drive Defensively – Be attentive while you are out on the road. If another driver is driving erratically, keep your distance and don’t let them out of your sight. This will allow you to avoid traffic incidents dangerous drivers could cause. If you suspect another driver is intoxicated, pull over somewhere safe and contact the authorities immediately.
5. Check Your Restraints – Are your seatbelts in working order? Is your child’s safety seat properly installed in the back? Are your airbags activated? Is your car up-to-date on all recalls? Checking the safety devices in your vehicle to ensure they work properly can make all the difference should you be involved in a traffic collision. Be prepared.

Keeping your family safe over the holiday weekend is important for families across Washington D.C. Practicing safe and defensive driving as well as observing common-sense safety guidelines will help you and your family have a safer Labor Day holiday weekend.