As individuals and families finalize their Fourth of July plans, many find themselves traveling over the Independence Day holiday. With so many places to visit and things to do in this great nation of ours, it can be hard to choose an itinerary.
But the number one priority on everyone’s agenda must be safety. With so many travelers and passengers on the road this year, this year is likely to break travel records from years past.
Why it’s a record-breaking year
According to AAA, which will be counting both the weekends preceding and following the Fourth of July, this nine-day stretch of days officially began on June 29 and will end on July 7. That’s an extended period for cars and trucks to be out on the highways and interstates and celebrating the holiday.
Why safety is so important
With all the extra traffic on the roads, you will want to plan enough extra travel time to counter highway work zones, accidents and bumper-to-bumper traffic toward beaches and other popular destinations.
Keep in mind that you are only as safe as the drivers around you, so pay attention to the road and the drivers who may be impaired or driving too fast or aggressively for the conditions.
Drive sober
You certainly don’t want to get arrested for drunken driving or worse, be the cause of an accident that kills or maims others. If you plan to celebrate Independence Day with alcohol, either budget a hotel stay for your trip or make arrangements to bunk with friends for the night. Just don’t drink and drive.
What if you get hurt in a collision?
It can be daunting to try to figure out what to do after a car accident. Make sure that you seek treatment for your injuries, as that establishes a link to the accident for the claim you will later file. Also, never admit guilt at the scene and respond only to what the police officers ask. Don’t elaborate on your answers.
Remember that you begin building your civil case against the at-fault driver at the accident scene, so always act appropriately.