If you are planning on hitting the road this holiday season to visit loved ones, you’re in good company. According to USA TODAY, more than 100 million Americans travel between December 23 and January 2 nowadays, and more than 90 million of them do so by car.
Unfortunately, more congestion also means more opportunities for motor vehicle collisions along your favorite route. Car accidents are always devastating, but they seem especially poignant when they occur on an otherwise joyous occasion.
Although there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of causing a crash, there is nothing you can do to avoid collisions caused by others. Sadly, even the most cautious motorists will likely find themselves in a car accident at some point in their lifetime.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision despite following all the rules of the road, contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C. Joel Baruch is a proud member of The National Association of Distinguished Counsel, an honor held by only 1 percent of attorneys in the United States.
When your financial security is at stake because you must miss work in order to recover from serious injuries, you can rely on Joel Baruch and the rest of our compassionate team for quality legal counsel during every stage of the claims process. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a case evaluation with an auto accident attorney in Irvine.
Read on to learn how you can increase the chances of reaching your destination safely this holiday season:
- Get Plenty of Sleep
Since Christmas is on a Monday this year, most Americans have the weekend prior to travel, which means fewer people will start their trip after putting in a full day at work. This will serve to make the roads safer for everyone because drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. If your final destination is more than a few miles away, make sure you are well rested before heading out, and consider traveling with other licensed drivers so you can take turns at the wheel along the way.
- Eliminate Distractions
Applying makeup, eating, and texting are just a few of the most common activities that distract drivers on long road trips. Eliminate distractions before hitting the road, and make it a point to stop whenever you need to eat, text, or adjust the navigation system.
- Do Not Drink and Drive
What is Christmas without spiked eggnog or New Year’s Eve without champagne? Even people who do not drink much during the rest of the year may find themselves indulging a little more than usual over the holidays. If you plan on drinking this Christmas, make sure you arrange for alternative transportation before the festivities begin.
Although following the above tips can help, you assume risk every time you get behind the wheel because you have no control over the other motorists on the road. If you were hurt in a car accident that was not your fault, contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C.
Currently, we have 22 verdicts and settlements in excess of $1 million. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a consultation with an auto accident lawyer in Irvine. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in California, visit USAttorneys.com.
