Whether you are simply driving to the other side of town this Christmas or you are making a cross-country road trip, you are likely to encounter some travel problems along the way. After all, Christmas is one of the busiest travel times of the year.
Christmas Day is also one of the most-deadly days for motorists in the United States. The National Safety Council reports that approximately 371 people will lose their lives in traffic accidents on Christmas Day. What makes Christmas travel so dangerous?
Congested traffic
It is no surprise that traffic on Christmas can be bumper-to-bumper. The more drivers there are on the road, the greater the chance you could be involved in a motor vehicle accident caused by a driver who is distracted or in a hurry.
Congested traffic can cause one other serious issue—road rage. Road rage can cause a driver to take extreme risks out of anger. They could target you as they make unnecessary and dangerous driving maneuvers aimed at causing you injury. A driver with road rage can easily cause a fatal crash.
Bad weather
Bad weather can hit Connecticut and much of the nation on Christmas. Winter for much of the United States means ice, snow or even heavy rain or fog. Any of these conditions mean you have a duty to drive with extra care.
Still, some drivers will not drive with due care when roads are slick, and visibility is limited. They may speed, tailgate, weave between lanes and make other driving maneuvers that put other motorists at risk of a collision.
Drunk drivers
Christmas is a holiday and people like to celebrate. Many of us enjoy a boozy eggnog or glass of mulled wine at a holiday party or family get-together.
Still, some will go overboard on this holiday cheer and become intoxicated. Then they get behind the wheel of a car to drive home.
Sadly, drunk drivers are a common sight on Christmas. They pose a danger to all other motorists because they are no longer in control of their mental and physical faculties. They can easily cause a drunk driving crash that kills another motorist.
Drive safely this Christmas
Do not let your Christmas or the Christmas of others be marred by unsafe driving. If we all drive with due care, we can all reach our destination safely.