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Memorial Day Travel Safety

 

Memorial Day Safety

Many Americans are planning to travel during the upcoming holiday weekend. A recent survey by Travelocity stated that nearly 80% of surveyed adults who said they plan to travel on Memorial Day, plan to travel by car. An article by AAA states that due to the low gas prices we have seen this year, more than a third of Americans plans to take a family vacation of 50 miles or more from home this year.

The following are good reminders as you prepare to take to the road during the Memorial Day travel weekend.

  • Buckle your safety belt – it’s the best way to stay safe in a vehicle and remember, the national Click It or Ticket program is in full swing over the holiday weekend
  • Put down the cell phone – nearly 10 people are killed and over 1,000 injured every day in crashes involving distracted drivers – don’t text and drive!
  • Don’t drink and drive – even one alcoholic drink can reduce your abilities and impair your judgment
  • Be prepared – take a map, atlas, or GPS device; make sure your spare tire is inflated and you know how to change it; have your car serviced before heading out; include an emergency kit with water and snacks in case you’re stranded for more than a few hours;  refuel BEFORE your gas warning indicator displays
  • Turn down the music – hearing sirens and emergency vehicles is an important warning to slow down and drive cautiously - you may be approaching an accident scene
  • Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel – eating, looking for CDs, and digging for things in the floorboard or back seat can lead to trouble
  • Get plenty of rest – make sure you’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, rotate driving duties with others in the car to avoid becoming too sleepy or distracted
  • Take frequent breaks – stop, get out of the vehicle, and stretch your legs often
  • Be courteous - because of the volume of vehicles on the road, you’re bound to run into a few traffic jams, be cut off, or be forced to stop short - remain calm and courteous - don’t let other drivers ruin your holiday

Travel safely and enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!

Sheriff James R. Moore

Sheriff Moore

Sources
newsroom.aaa.com – More Than One-third of Americans Will Take a Family Vacation This Year (4.21.16)
travelocity.mediaroom.com – Survey Finds Majority of Memorial Day Travelers Plan to Travel by Car This Year (5.3.16)
www.cdc.gov – Distracted Driving