Holiday Driving Safety: Tips for a Stress-Free Season
Don’t let car trouble dampen your holiday spirit. Here’s how to navigate the busiest travel weeks of the year.
Going Over the River & Through the Woods?
Ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey. Schedule a pre-holiday safety inspection at Car-X today and travel with peace of mind.
Find a Location & Schedule TodayNavigating the Season of Travel
The holidays are meant for family and celebration, but they also bring the busiest travel days of the year. Between unpredictable winter weather and increased traffic on the highways, your vehicle needs to be in peak condition to ensure you arrive at your destination safely. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing a roadside emergency.
Essential Holiday Safety Tips:
- Check Your Lights: With shorter days and longer nights, visibility is critical. Ensure all headlights, tail lights, and blinkers are working perfectly so you can see and be seen.
- Monitor Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop (roughly 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop). Properly inflated tires provide better traction and better fuel economy.
- Test Your Battery: Cold starts put a massive strain on your battery. If yours is more than three years old, have it tested before you leave so you aren’t left stranded in a parking lot.
- Pack a Winter Emergency Kit: Always carry blankets, extra water, a flashlight, and a portable phone charger. If you do get stuck, you’ll want to stay warm and connected.
- Plan for Delays: Expect traffic and give yourself extra time. Rushing leads to aggressive driving and accidents; staying calm keeps everyone safe.
Stay Alert and Focused
Holiday driving often involves long hours on the road. Avoid driving while fatigued and take breaks every two hours to stay alert. Designate a “navigator” to handle the GPS and phone so the driver can keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How early should I check my car before a holiday trip?
A: It’s best to have your vehicle inspected at least one to two weeks before your departure. This allows time for any necessary parts to be ordered and repairs to be completed without rushing your holiday schedule.
Q: What’s the best time to drive to avoid holiday traffic?
A: Typically, traveling very early in the morning (before 6 AM) or late in the evening helps you avoid the worst congestion. Always check a real-time traffic app before heading out.
Q: Does cold weather affect my fuel mileage during long trips?
A: Yes. Cold air is denser, increasing drag. Additionally, engines take longer to reach fuel-efficient temperatures, and winter-blend fuels have slightly less energy.
Going Over the River & Through the Woods?
Ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey. Schedule a pre-holiday safety inspection at Car-X today and travel with peace of mind.
Find a Location & Schedule Today
