2020
‘Tis The Season to Be Jolly Careful
Jim Jenkins / 0 Comments /With the festive season upon us, we’re busy ticking off presents from our list and catching up with friends and family. However, with increased traffic and road conditions, it’s also the season to take extra care on these Florida roads.
According to a 2015 study, Florida experienced a 4.9% increase in car accidents from November to December. The study also showed that the number of collisions was the highest all year round in December.
Winter weather driving conditions
So why the increased risk at this time of year? Well, although a white Christmas is unlikely in the Sunshine State, Florida’s winter does experience conditions that affect our driving. Wind and rain can cause hazardous driving conditions, and the north of the state often gets a mix of sleet and freezing rain.
Snowbird season
Floridians know that once winter hits, there’s an influx of travelers and tourists. This increase in the volume of traffic can lead to an increase in collisions. Other factors play a role such as rushed, distracted, or fatigued drivers, failure of drivers to yield, and drivers unfamiliar with Florida roads. Some can drive too slow on the highway, and others might be distracted with their GPS while navigating their way.
On the road to a safe journey
This Christmas, we wish you a safe and peaceful holiday – here are 7 tips for staying safe on those winter roads this festive season.
- Windscreen wipers
With wintery showers ahead, take some time to check your wiper blades so that your vision is good behind the wheel.
- Wide berth
With stressed-out shoppers and merrymakers on the roads, leave enough space between you and the person in front. This is especially important on wet/icy roads, where you need to allow for a greater braking distance. Never tailgate – you may need to brake unexpectedly, and you’ll go straight into the car in front.
- Tires
Your tires need to be in tip-top condition every winter, so ask a mechanic to check the thread count, and ensure that they’re adequately inflated. Never mix radial tires with other tire types.
- Avoid unnecessary journeys
Many of us are avoiding unnecessary journeys to the mall due to Covid and are shopping online instead. With poor driving conditions, ask yourself if it can wait. Tired? Pullover and make the journey another time.
- Watch your speed
The in-laws are expecting you for eggnog at three and if you can just step on it and stop off to pick up some gifts on the way you’ll make it on time. Tempting? Sure. Dangerous? Absolutely. Respect the speed limit.
- Belt up
As the driver, you’re responsible for ensuring that everyone is wearing a seatbelt. No exceptions.
- Eyes on the road
Distractions are one of the leading causes of collisions, so save that cell phone call or text for later and arrive alive. Google maps and GPS can also distract drivers.
Driving home for Christmas
If you’re involved in a car accident injury this winter, we’re ready to help you to get back in the driving seat. Jenkins Law P.L will help you work through covering the cost of property damage and personal injury bills. Our experienced, professional, and empathetic team will provide legal representation and guidance. Get in touch to see how we can be there for you when it counts.
